It’s finally here! The leaves are changing and there’s a chill in the air. Before you get cozy in front of the fire, check some of these home maintenance chores off your list. A little seasonal maintenance can help keep your home looking good and functioning properly. Plus it can save you some money down the road because you’ll catch problems before they get out of hand.
‘Tis the season…
- Rake it in: There’s only a few things better than the sight of changing leaves in the fall. But if you don’t take care of those dead leaves on your lawn, things can get out of control fast. Failing to clean up those leaves can lead to dead grass and no growth in the spring. Plus rotten leaves grow mold.. and the only thing you should be smelling this fall is crisp air and a pumpkin spice latte.
- Clean the gutters: This one goes along with the leaves.. leaves clog your gutters so rain or snow water cant flow through and will spill over. That might not seem like a big deal besides being annoying but it can also ruin your homes siding, roof and sometimes the foundation.
- The Roof: While your up there cleaning those gutters, check that all the shingles are in place and in good shape for winter storms.
- Check your windows and doors: When you shut a door or window, make sure you don’t see of feel any spaces where air can escape, seal em’up. You may think these little gaps arent a big deal, but they add up and cost you on your energy bill. You’ll thank me when you arent keeping the whole neighborhood warm or inviting in a mouse or two to take up a warm shelter in your cabinets.
- Store the summer stuff: Patio furniture, trampolines and other summer staples should go into storage. Snow and rain will damage most outdoor items.
- Conduct your own inspection: Take a walk around the outside of your home, keeping an eye out for damage along the path leading to your home. Cracks could mean loose cement or gravel.. leading to a tripping/falling hazard when it snows. Seal any cracks you see and even inspect the siding and foundation while you’re at it.
- Chimney Sweep: Schedule a time to have your chimney and heating system cleaned and maintained, including replacing old filters with new ones. This will decrease the likelihood of a house fire.
- Pipe it down: Shut off the water supply to your outside faucets and insulate the pipes before the weather drops below 32 degrees. This can prevent your pipes from bursting and freezing.
- Vent about it: Your dryer vent… cooler weather means more static electricity. That means the junk in your lint trap can ignite more easily. Clean it out good to prevent the problem and keep your dryer working more efficiently.
- Fire Drills(& others): Test all your safety devices, smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms. Check the date on your fire extinguisher.
- Insurance check: Does your insurance cover a big storm? The final item on your to do list should always be to call your insurance agent. Arrange a time to walk through your coverage to make sure your home will be protected no matter what may happen.