Fall is the perfect time to give your home a full maintenance inspection. The weather is still warm and dry enough to enable any necessary repairs or maintenance to be completed before the colder temps settle in.
Clean the Gutters
Clogged gutters can lead to water backup and leaks along the roof and side of your home. This can lead to damage both inside and outside the home including flooding. So before the leaves and debris really build up, clean those gutters. You might also want to consider installing a protective mesh guard. This will assist with keeping large particles from accumulating in the future.
Inspect the Roof
Take a close look at your roof. Look for any damaged shingles, metal flashings, and vents that may need to be replaced. Looked for curled, split missing shingles, bent flashing or damaged vents. Call an expert to provide advise if your inspection reveals any potential issues.
Hazard Proof Your Walkways and Steps
Your outdoor walkways and stairways can become hazardous as soon as the ice forms. If you find cracks, loose railings, stones or other issues you should have these addressed.
Winterize Your Home
To help ensure your piping doesn’t freeze and burst, shut off all outside valves and drain the lines.
Check the Furnace
One thing you don’t want endure is a malfunction with your furnace during the winter. Every fall you should contact an HVAC technician to come and check the furnace for performance or maintenance needs.
Look Over Fireplaces and Wood Burning Stoves
Before you light a fire this year, make sure to give your fireplace and wood burning stove a good look over. Examine the internal and external mechanisms and check for any blockages, cracks, rust, and damage that should be repaired. You may want to have your chimney cleaned as well.
Fire Safety
As part of your monthly safety inspection, you should check your smoke detector(s), fire extinguisher(s), and carbon monoxide detector(s). Replace any out-dated batteries, look for signs of damage, and test each one.
Replace Weather Stripping and Caulking
Check the weather-stripping and caulking around your windows and doors to make sure they are still working effectively. If they are starting to deteriorate or are missing, immediately replace the material to seal any cracks before the first snowfall.
Upgrade To Energy Efficient Windows And Doors
Drafts through and from around your windows and doors will not only make your home colder but will also cost you money in excessive heating bills. Assess your home for weathered doors and windows and have them upgraded to more energy efficient designs if necessary.
A proper Fall home inspection will help to ensure your home is safe and comfortable all winter long. For more tips on how to winterize your home contact us at Scheel Windows and Doors – we can help you upgrade your windows and doors to keep your home warm and cozy all winter long.
