Tips to Maintain your Home
It feels like Spring cleaning was just yesterday, but Fall prep is just around the corner!
For many, fall is a favorite time of year. But it’s not all pumpkin spice lattes, your home & yard may need some upkeep so you can rest easy this winter. Here are a few tips you can check off your list:
1. Roof & Gutters
Snow can have a huge impact on the durability of your roof. Before wintertime, it’s beneficial to inspect your roof. You can do so using binoculars or a ladder to simply inspect there’s no curled, cracked or missing shingles. Next, check for rusted flashing, moss or lichen. If you suspect there’s an issue, have a professional inspect your roof for you. After the majority of the leaves have fallen, you’ll also want to clean your gutters & check for accumulated granules. If this is the case, your roof could be missing some coating. Gutter guards may be your friend in preventing clogs.
2. Siding, Landscaping & Gardening
Prevent small animals from making their way into your home for shelter and warmth this winter. Check your home siding for any cracks or gaps. If you have chips in the paint, you may want to touch it up. This will help shield your home from the harsh weather. Additionally, trim your tree branches, check for branches close to your roof, power lines or driveway.
3. Lighting & Yard Equipment
As the weather cools down, it will begin to get darker sooner. Think ahead if you’d like to add some lights or need replacements, and be sure everything is in working order. A time comes when you no longer need to mow your lawn. Prepare your lawn mower for next spring by emptying the fuel tank/adding fuel stabilizer if the tank is full. Then, check out your snow blower and make sure it’s in working order!
4. Windows, Doors & Safety Checks
Seal gaps & cracks around your windows and doors with caulk, weather strips or a window insulator. If you have storm windows, it’s time to get them set back up! Then, test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, fire extinguishers, etc. Make sure to have an emergency escape plan, because accidents happen when we least expect them.
5. Furnace Inspection & Fireplace Prep
Hire a professional to service your furnace, replace its filter, inspect burners, check for leaks, etc. You can also hire a professional to check your fireplace and chimney! You’ll want to remove build up and prevent animals and debris from entering that way. If you use a wood burning fireplace, be sure to stock your wood and store it at least 30 feet away from your home & structures.
6. Prepare for Winter Storms & Power Outages
Every winter, homes can lose power due to winter storms, wind or other factors affecting the power companies. Be sure to have a plan before it’s too late. Purchase a generator & learn to set it up before it’s needed. Be sure to prepare to keep warm during the storm in case things go south. Sleeping bags, warm hats & socks are great to keep around in that case! Keep emergency foods stored somewhere in case you get snowed in, too. And be sure to prepare your elderly loved ones & pets for an incoming storm as well.
If you haven’t purchased homeowners insurance yet, you may want to consider it before the harsh weather rolls in. A Homeowners policy generally includes dwelling coverage, protecting your structures from fire, wind, hail, lightning, theft & vandalism. If you have specific concerns, you can see if we can get those added to your policy as well. Be sure to ask us about Homeowners Insurance for Personal Liability Coverage before the upcoming Holiday Season. Contact us today for a complimentary quote!
