Prepare Your Home for Winter: A Cape Town Maintenance Checklist

As the days grow shorter and the rainclouds return, Cape Town homeowners know winter can bring more than just chilly evenings. From damp walls to power outages, preparing your home for the colder months is not just smart; it can save you serious time, money, and frustration.

At Handyman Homes, we’ve created this expert-backed winter home maintenance checklist tailored specifically for Cape Town’s climate. Whether you live in the Southern Suburbs, the City Bowl, or along the Atlantic Seaboard, these proactive tips will keep your property protected and comfortable all season long.

1. Inspect and Repair Exterior Paint

Cape Town winters are wet, and water damage is the number one enemy of untreated or cracked exterior paint. Peeling paint can lead to damp walls and expensive repairs.

Checklist:

• Look for peeling, bubbling, or cracked paint.
• Check fascia boards, window frames, and gutters for signs of wear.
• Book a professional repainting or touch-up if needed.

Estimated Cost: R2,500 – R12,000 depending on surface area and condition

Learn more about our Painting Services

2. Seal Windows and Doors

Even small drafts can significantly increase your electricity bill and reduce indoor comfort. Proper sealing prevents water ingress and keeps warmth in.

Checklist:

• Feel around windows and doors for cold air leaks.
• Replace old or cracked rubber seals.
• Consider installing door sweeps or draught excluders.

3. Check Electrical Systems and Heating

Winter is high season for power surges and tripped breakers. Avoid a mid-July outage by ensuring your electrical systems are safe and ready for higher loads.

Checklist:

• Test all plugs and light switches.
• Inspect your DB board for burnt or frayed wires.
• Service electric heaters and panel heaters.

Consider installing a backup battery or inverter.

Estimated Cost: R1,200 – R5,000+ for minor fixes or upgrades

Explore our Electrical Services

4. Clear and Repair Gutters

Blocked gutters can overflow and cause extensive water damage to your foundation and roofing. Regular clearing is essential before the winter rains arrive.

Checklist:

• Remove leaves and debris from gutters and downpipes.
• Check for cracks or rust.
• Redirect water flow away from walls.

Pro Tip: Install gutter guards to reduce the need for regular clearing.

5. Waterproof High-Risk Areas

In Cape Town, waterproofing isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. If you notice damp marks or mildew smells, act fast.

Checklist:

• Inspect ceilings and walls for water stains.
• Treat rising damp and roof leaks early.
• Consider applying a damp-proof membrane or sealant.

Estimated Cost: R3,000 – R15,000 depending on severity

Book a Waterproofing Assessment

6. Plumbing and Drainage Checks

Cold weather and heavy rainfall can wreak havoc on ageing pipes. Winter is not the time to discover a leak.

Checklist:

• Check exposed pipes for cracks or rust.
• Insulate outdoor plumbing.
• Test your geyser pressure and settings.
• Make sure your drains flow freely.

See our Plumbing Services

7. Kitchen & Bathroom Check-up

Your kitchen and bathroom should be warm, functional, and free of mould during the winter. Cold air or poor insulation in these areas can make your mornings miserable.

Checklist:

• Re-seal around sinks, bathtubs, and tiles.
• Check extractor fans and ventilation.
• Repair leaking taps or low water pressure.

View Our Kitchen Renovations / Bathroom Renovations Services

8. Secure and Maintain Your Fixtures

Storms, strong winds, and cold snaps can damage fittings like curtain rods, artworks, or ceiling hooks.

Checklist:

• Check all picture hooks, rails, and shelves.
• Replace corroded wall plugs and screws.
• Secure loose fixtures and fittings before wind or damp causes them to fall.

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🛠️ Bonus: Emergency Toolkit for Cape Town Winters

• Flashlight with extra batteries
• Surge protector
• Sandbags (for low-lying homes)

Contact local service providers (save ours: 021 123 4567)

071-319-2831