Maintaining a Home in Menorca During Winter: What Really Makes the Difference

Winter in Menorca is a privileged time: the island empties, the pace slows down and homes are allowed to rest.
But that rest, if not properly managed, can end up taking its toll.

Humidity, wind, rainfall and temperature changes make winter the most important time of the year for property maintenance, especially in country houses, detached villas or properties located in exposed areas.

After more than 25 years managing and selling properties on the island, one thing is clear: homes that are cared for during winter age far better.

Humidity: the silent enemy

Humidity does not appear overnight. It settles in gradually, without warning, and by the time it is detected, it has already left its mark.

During winter it is advisable to:

Ventilate the property at least once a week, even if it is not in use.
Maintain a constant minimum temperature rather than switching the heating off completely.
Use dehumidifiers in sensitive rooms such as bedrooms, bathrooms or basements.
Check built-in wardrobes and north-facing walls.

A house that remains completely closed for months in Menorca almost always ends up developing humidity problems.

Tramontana and salt air: two key factors in Menorca

When it comes to winter property maintenance in Menorca, there are two decisive elements that are not always sufficiently considered: the tramontana wind and salt air.

The tramontana, particularly intense during the winter months, brings more than just wind. It carries cold moisture and exerts constant pressure on roofs, façades and external joinery. Properties facing north or located in open areas feel its effects most, with increased wear on shutters, windows and enclosures.

In homes located on the front line of the sea, salt air is an even more aggressive factor. Salt in the air accelerates the corrosion of railings, fittings, screws, metal elements, outdoor air-conditioning units and aluminium or steel enclosures.

If these elements are not cleaned and inspected periodically during winter, deterioration multiplies. In these cases, maintenance is not an aesthetic issue, but a structural and functional necessity.

Roofs and coverings: check before the real rain arrives

Winter winds and rainfall put any roof to the test.

It is essential to check:

Displaced or broken tiles.
Junctions with chimneys, skylights and roof windows.
Clean gutters and downpipes.
Small cracks that go unnoticed in summer.

A minor leak today can become a serious structural problem tomorrow.
There are no shortcuts here: preventive maintenance is always cheaper.

Tramontana and Salt Air: Two Key Factors in Menorca

Roofs and Coverings: Check Before the Real Rain Arrives

Swimming pools: not just cover and forget

Many swimming pools deteriorate in winter, not in summer.

Recommended actions include:

Correctly adjusting the water level.
Maintaining basic chemical treatment.
Running the filtration system periodically.
Using suitable covers, properly fitted and breathable.

A pool left unattended for months usually reappears in spring with algae, damaged pumps and unnecessary expenses.

Gardens: less work, but not neglect

The Mediterranean garden benefits from winter, provided it is cared for sensibly.

At this time it is advisable to:

Significantly reduce watering.
Carry out pruning at the appropriate time.
Check irrigation timers and systems.
Remove accumulated leaves near walls and drainage areas.

A well-managed garden in winter starts spring in much better condition.

Installations: what is not used also ages

Plumbing, electricity, heating or solar systems require attention even when the property is empty.

Basic recommendations:

Inspect installations periodically.
Avoid keeping water circuits closed for months.
Check pressures, boilers and storage tanks.
Disconnect what is unnecessary, but not everything indiscriminately.

A “hibernated” house without supervision often brings unpleasant surprises.

Humidity does not appear overnight. It settles in gradually, without warning, and by the time it is detected, it has already left its mark.

Swimming Pools: Not Just Cover and Forget

In summary

Winter in Menorca is not a problem.
The problem is thinking that nothing happens.

Homes that are well maintained during winter:

Preserve their value better.
Avoid major expenses in the medium term.
Sell more easily.
And, above all, are enjoyed without nasty surprises when the season arrives.

At Ses Moreres we are clear about one thing:
a good property is not only one that is bought well, but one that is well cared for.

If you have a house in Menorca, winter is the best time to protect it.