Autumn Property Maintenance: Protect Your Property Before Winter Hits — Mill Architects

Does your property need some TLC? Repair and ongoing maintenance of properties are becoming ever more critical….

Many traditional properties across Scotland are in poor and deteriorating condition, primarily due to weathering and neglect. In numerous cases, owners are unaware of underlying issues until water ingress, stone falls, or other serious problems force costly repairs. Regular maintenance is often overlooked, particularly in older properties where historical yet well-intentioned inappropriate repairs, such as the use of cement mortar, can exacerbate damage over time.

As autumn approaches and temperatures begin to drop, now is a critical time for property owners to focus on essential maintenance tasks. Falling leaves can quickly block gutters and drains, leading to water ingress issues and fabric deterioration if not addressed. Combined with the colder weather, this season presents a pivotal opportunity to prevent minor problems from escalating into costly repairs.

Typical problems from poor maintenance include leaking gutters, slipped or missing slates splits to roof leadwork and spalling / deteriorating stonework. Blocked gutters, for example, can cause water to leak into the building, soaking timber beams and lintels, leading to rot. Over time, unchecked storm damage to slates or leadwork can result in water ingress, causing further internal deterioration when a simple fix is all that is required to prevent more significant repairs further down the line.

A lack of proper care accelerates these issues. Cement mortar, often improperly used on stone, prevents moisture from escaping through the pointing, worsening the decay. Dangerous conditions such as eroded balustrades, loose stonework, and deteriorated high-level chimneys can pose serious safety risks, with stone falls potentially proving fatal.

By addressing these issues early—clearing gutters, repairing roofs, and replacing inappropriate materials like cement mortar—property owners can prevent further deterioration, avoid costly repairs, and ensure the safety of their buildings before winter sets in.

Engaging accredited professionals such as architects, surveyors, and property managers can provide valuable support in assessing and maintaining your property. These experts can recommend essential repairs, inspect key areas like roofs and drainage systems, and help implement preventative measures before winter arrives. They can also highlight what needs to be repaired when and implement a maintenance plan for your traditional building. With their expertise, property owners can ensure that maintenance tasks are carried out to the highest standard, safeguarding both the property and its occupants.

As the seasons change, property maintenance becomes increasingly important. By taking a proactive approach this autumn, property owners can protect their assets, ensure safety, and maintain the condition of their properties throughout the colder months.

Upcoming Events & Webinars

If you live in a tenement with many neighbours, maintaining your block can seem impossible and daunting. Mill will be hosting a webinar with Under One Roof covering critical issues of common tenement repair to help owners resolve any ongoing problems or start the process. The process can be easier than you think!

Mill is also planning a webinar on repair and maintenance for traditional properties. This webinar will provide vital information to help you determine your property's condition and understand the best process for getting started.

To keep up to date on our events and news, please follow us on social media or email us at hello@millarchitects.co.uk.