Autumn in North Wales brings crisp mornings, changing colours and quieter days in the countryside. It also brings colder temperatures, heavier rain and the first signs that winter isn’t too far away.
If you own a holiday home, a little static caravan winter maintenance now can help keep it in good condition throughout the colder months and make things easier when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
For owners at Countryside Caravan Parks, winter preparation will look slightly different depending on which park you call home. Caerwys View is open all year round, while Plas Newydd is open from 1 March to 30 December before taking its annual winter break.
Whichever park you’re on, here are some simple things worth checking as the seasons change.
1. Check Your Water System Before Winter
Water and freezing temperatures aren’t a good combination, so your water system should be one of the first things you think about when preparing a static caravan for winter.
If your holiday home is going to be unused during colder weather, make sure the water system is dealt with correctly and follow the guidance for your individual caravan.
At Countryside Caravan Parks, annual winter disconnection and reconnection is included within the park service costs.
If you’re unsure about what needs doing to your particular caravan, speak to the park team before leaving it unused for an extended period.
2. Clear Gutters And Check The Exterior
Autumn leaves look lovely on the trees. They’re less helpful when they’re sitting in your gutters.
Take a walk around your caravan and check that gutters and drainage areas are clear of leaves and other debris so rainwater can drain away properly.
It’s also a good opportunity to look over:
- The roof and exterior cladding
- Windows and seals
- Decking and steps
- Skirting around the caravan
- Any outdoor storage areas
Look out for anything that may need attention before the weather becomes colder or wetter.
3. Look After Your Caravan Decking
Decking gets plenty of use throughout spring and summer, but autumn and winter can be harder on it.
Clear away fallen leaves regularly, particularly when they’re wet, and keep the surface free from moss and debris. Check steps, gates and handrails too, especially if you plan to continue using your caravan during the colder months.
If outdoor furniture won’t be used for a while, make sure it is securely stored or protected from the weather.
4. Keep Air Moving Inside
Good ventilation is an important part of looking after a static caravan during winter.
Keep fixed ventilation points clear and avoid blocking air vents with furniture or belongings. If you’re leaving your caravan for a longer period, leaving internal doors slightly open can help air circulate.
Moisture traps can also be useful in areas where condensation tends to build up.
5. Give Your Caravan A Good Clean
If you’re leaving your holiday home for a while, giving it a proper clean before you go makes for a much nicer return.
Remove perishable food from cupboards and clear out the fridge and freezer. Once they’re switched off in line with the manufacturer’s guidance, leaving the doors slightly open can help prevent unwanted smells.
It’s also worth:
- Wiping down kitchen and bathroom surfaces
- Vacuuming floors and soft furnishings
- Emptying bins
- Checking cupboards for food
- Removing anything that could attract pests
A little effort before you leave means there’s less to deal with when you return.
6. Take Care Of Soft Furnishings
Cold surfaces and limited airflow can encourage condensation, so give cushions, bedding and other soft furnishings some breathing space.
Move items slightly away from exterior walls where practical and stand removable seat cushions upright if you’re leaving for an extended period.
You may also prefer to take particularly valuable or delicate items home with you over winter.
7. Check Windows, Doors And Security
Before leaving your static caravan for any length of time, check that all windows and external doors close and lock properly.
Take a final walk around your holiday home and make sure outdoor items are secure, storage areas are locked and valuables haven’t been left behind unnecessarily.
Winter Preparation At Plas Newydd
Plas Newydd is open from 1 March to 30 December, so owners should make sure their holiday home is properly prepared before the park closes for winter.
Annual winter disconnection and reconnection is included within the park service costs, and the team is on hand if you have any questions before leaving your holiday home for the season.
Then all that’s left to do is look forward to returning when Plas Newydd reopens on 1 March.
Winter At Caerwys View
Caerwys View has a 12-month season, so owners can continue enjoying their holiday home throughout autumn and winter.
If you’re planning to leave your caravan unused for an extended period, it’s still worth carrying out the checks above before you go. Regular visits throughout winter can also give you the chance to spot any maintenance issues early.
Your Static Caravan Winter Maintenance Checklist
Before the colder weather sets in, run through these simple checks:
- Check your water system and follow the correct winter procedure
- Clear leaves and debris from gutters
- Inspect windows, seals, roof and exterior cladding
- Clear and check decking, steps and handrails
- Secure or store outdoor furniture
- Keep fixed ventilation points clear
- Remove perishable food
- Clean the fridge and cupboards
- Give soft furnishings room to breathe
- Check windows and doors are properly secured
- Remove valuables if you’re leaving for an extended period
A Little Preparation Goes A Long Way
A few simple checks before colder weather arrives can help keep your static caravan in good condition throughout autumn and winter.
Whether you’re preparing your holiday home at Plas Newydd for the seasonal closure or leaving your Caerwys View caravan unused for a while, the Countryside Caravan Parks team is here if you need advice.
📞 01352 720 748
📧 dafyddroberts@countrysidecaravanparks.com
