It's that time of year again. Summer days are in the past and the fall season is upon us. It will be winter soon enough but before that happens, let's take a moment to look over some important things to check before those flakes start flying.
Fall is a great time to prepare your home for the colder months ahead and ensure that it remains safe and comfortable. Some of these seem like no brainers and others, well I know I have been guilty of neglecting some of them. Here's an easy fall check list to get your home ready for Winter :
1. Clean Gutters and Downspouts:
Remove leaves, debris, and any blockages to prevent water from overflowing and causing damage to your roof or foundation.
2. Inspect the Roof:
Look for damaged or missing shingles and have them replaced.
Check for leaks and signs of water damage in the attic or ceilings.
3. Seal Gaps and Cracks:
Inspect windows, doors, and foundation for gaps or cracks, and seal them with caulk or weatherstripping to improve energy efficiency.
4. Check the Chimney and Fireplace:
Schedule a professional chimney sweep and inspection if you have a wood-burning fireplace or stove.
Ensure the damper is working properly to prevent drafts.
5. Clean and Service HVAC Systems:
Change the furnace filter.
Schedule a professional HVAC inspection and cleaning to ensure your heating system is in good working order.
6. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors:
Replace batteries and test all detectors to ensure they are working correctly.
7. Inspect and Clean Dryer Vent:
Remove lint buildup from the dryer vent to reduce the risk of fires and improve dryer efficiency.
8. Prepare Outdoor Faucets and Irrigation Systems:
Drain and winterize outdoor faucets and irrigation systems to prevent freezing and damage.
9. Trim Trees and Shrubs:
Trim back overhanging branches that could fall onto your home during winter storms.
10. Store Outdoor Furniture and Equipment:
Clean and store outdoor furniture, grills, and gardening tools to protect them from winter weather.
11. Clean and Store Garden Hoses:
Drain and store garden hoses to prevent freezing and damage.
12. Inspect and Clean the Siding:
Check for damaged siding and clean it if needed.
13. Clean the Driveway and Walkways:
Remove leaves and debris to prevent slip hazards.
14. Prepare for Snow Removal:
Ensure you have shovels, ice melt, and a working snowblower if necessary.
15. Check Insulation:
Inspect the insulation in your attic and walls for damage or gaps, and add insulation if needed to improve energy efficiency.
16.Test Sump Pump:
If you have a sump pump in your basement, test it to make sure it's functioning correctly.
17. Inspect and Clean the Garage:
Organize and clean the garage, ensuring that winter tools and equipment are easily accessible.
18. Prepare Emergency Kit:
Assemble or update an emergency kit with essentials like flashlights, batteries, non-perishable food, and blankets.
19. Schedule a Pest Inspection:
Check for signs of pests and schedule an inspection or treatment if necessary.
20. Review Home Insurance:
Review your homeowner's insurance policy to ensure it provides adequate coverage for potential winter-related damage.
Regular fall maintenance can help protect your home from the harsh winter weather and save you money on energy bills. It's essential to address any issues you discover promptly to prevent them from becoming more significant problems later on.
Good luck with preparing your home for winter and GO Lions!!
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