How to Adapt Your Home to Galicia’s Climate

In Galicia, where rain is a constant companion and humidity seeps through the walls, having a climate-adapted home isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity! At Abeiro, we believe a Galician house should be like a good raincoat: waterproof, warm inside, and stormproof.

Here’s how to turn your home into an efficient refuge against Atlantic weather.

Understanding Galicia’s Climate: The 4 Key Challenges

1. Persistent rainfall → Risk of leaks and dampness

2. High humidity → Condensation and mold

3. Cold winters → High heating costs

4. Mild but humid summers → Poor ventilation efficiency

Key Solutions for a Perfectly Adapted Galician Home

1. Thermal Insulation: Your First Line of Defense

• Walls & roofs: Use breathable yet insulating materials like sprayed cork or natural fibers (prevents damp while retaining heat).

• Floors: Install damp-proof membranes and underfloor insulation.

• Windows: Double glazing with thermal breaks (cuts heating costs by up to 30%).

2. Smart Sealing & Ventilation

• Check door/window seals to prevent leaks.

• Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR): Renews air without losing heat or letting humidity in.

• Pro tip: Ventilate at low-humidity times (midday) for just 10-15 minutes.

3. Humidity Control: Keep Mold at Bay

• Exterior waterproofing: Breathable renders and local stone/SATE (External Thermal Insulation Composite Systems).

• Interior: Anti-condensation paints and hygroscopic materials like chestnut wood.

• Passive solutions: Wide eaves to protect walls from horizontal rain.

4. Efficient Heating for Damp Winters

• Choose dry systems: Pellet stoves (local, economical fuel) or heat pumps.

• Avoid electric radiators: They increase ambient humidity.

• Pair with underfloor heating (ideal for even heat distribution).

5. Harness Natural Resources

• South-facing orientation: Large windows for winter sun.

• Sun protection: Awnings or deciduous plants (e.g., grapevines) for summer.

• Renewable energy: Solar thermal panels for hot water (works even with Galicia’s diffused light).