Spain is warm… until winter: Why homes can feel colder inside than out

I was not prepared for my first Spanish Winter. Three years on, I still catch myself shivering on the sofa, then stepping outside into 18°C sun with my woolly jumper on and sweating.

If you’ve just moved – or are eyeing up a move – to Spain, you’ll likely ask the same question I did: ‘How can a sunny country feel so cold indoors compared to outside?’
Discover the reasons why Spanish houses are built as they are. Also, learn what rainy seasons in Spain are and how to keep warm, dry and healthy, without paying a hefty electricity bill.

Spanish homes were built to be used in the summer and not during winter

Many of the homes in Spain, particularly along the coast, were designed to reduce summer heat. They have concrete walls, tiled floors and large openings that allow cross-breezes. Amazing in August, but very harsh from November to January.
Those hard, cold surfaces drag down what engineers call ‘mean radiant temperature’, so 18–19°C air can still feel chilly when walls and floors are cold to the touch.

The quality of newer homes is improving. Spain’s Código Técnico de la Edificación (CTE)In order to meet the new energy and insulation regulations, there are stricter requirements. Many coastal properties date back to the days before codes, when insulation was not required. According to data from recent years, 30 percent of Spanish homes are without fixed heating.

The most common heating types in Spain

• Oil/gas boilers and radiators
• Portable electric or butane heaters
• Log burners

Humidity, mould and rain in Spain during the rainy season

Spain’s so-called ‘rainy season’ varies each year, but generally runs from October to April, dependent on the region. Northern Spain has the most rain throughout the entire year. Southern Spain, and especially the Costa del Sol experience much less rain.

Humidity during the rainy season is the stealth culprit: moist air plus cold surfaces make rooms feel clammy even when the thermometer says 19°C.

How to control humidity in Spain during the rainy season

• A dehumidifier can keep the indoor humidity around 50%
• Open the shutters during daylight hours and close them when dusk falls
• Avoid drying damp clothes inside without a humidifier. To use a laundry, invest in a tumble-dryer.

Mould is attracted to cold, damp environments. Mould isn’t just unsightly – it’s linked to respiratory issues and can aggravate allergies.
Keep living areas above 18°C, ventilate bathrooms, and wipe condensation from window frames.

Read our guide on how to prevent and remove mould and dampness in your home.

Check out the report of the 1.7M air conditioners in Spain that have been recalled due to hidden mould risk.

Rent Spanish quickly during the wet and cold season

• Adhesive seals can do wonders for draft-proofing windows and doors. To block drafts, you can use rolled up towels inside tights to make door draught-blockers.
• Lay rugs over tiles.
• Close doors inside to heat only the rooms that are being used.
• Consider using thick curtains or thermal blinds.
• Set heating to 18–20 °C and maintain it, rather than putting it on full blast and then turning it off and letting it get cold again.

Spanish style of being cosy

The Spanish are able to make winter a time of warmth and comfort, despite the cold. The Chimenea remains the heart of many homes – a glowing centre for long evenings of vino tinto and garlic-rubbed toast.
The use of soft blankets will add colour and warmth to your home, while shutters that are closed tightly prevent heat loss.

Spain is blessed with warm weather for nine months out of the year. The other three require some planning. Know your home’s weak spots, manage humidity, and maintain that 18–20 °C comfort range. Before you know it, spring will be here again. chiringuitos will re-open – hurrah!

Spanish Living.