Like it or not, summer is drawing to a close. It's almost time for fall!
Before the leaves fall and the weather turns chilly, you might consider doing some seasonal maintenance. We all know what to do to get our wardrobes ready for the season, but how do you prepare your house for those chilly months to come? Here are some items for your checklist.
Have the furnace checked:
Have your heating system serviced before you actually need to use it. As much as 75% of the calls experts receive about homeowners without heat are a result of not having the furnace serviced and cleaned. It will also keep your heating costs down and help keep the air in your home healthy.
Inspect your roof:
You’ll want to check for shingles that are cracked, buckling, or missing. Check for caulking that needs to be replaced, or moss or lichen, which could indicate deterioration underneath. If you don’t trust your own assessment, work with a certified inspector.
Check for mold:
The humidity of summer can cause mold to flourish. Check locations such as around leaky pipes, basements, or areas that don’t get good ventilation. If you have mold that needs to be removed, opt for a professional.
Replace weatherstripping on doors:
Small gaps can easily jack up your energy bills. It’s a simple fix that can be done with items found at your local hardware store.
Check the airflow:
Focus on areas like vents, the hood over your stove, dryer vents, baseboard heaters and room fans. Not only is a buildup of dust a fire hazard, but you also want to keep the air flowing and the allergens at bay.
Get control of gutters and downspouts:
Clogs in gutters and downspouts can cause the roof to leak, which can lead to a host of other problems. It’s a slippery slope from clogged gutters to water damage in your home!
Inspect your insulation:
The most important area to check is your attic. You should have the highest concentration of insulation here. See if there are any gaps that need to be filled. You don’t need to check the insulation in your walls unless you notice heating issues.
Make sure your detectors are working:
Ensure both smoke and carbon monoxide detectors have fresh batteries. It’s smart to test them, also. Both are especially important once your furnace is in use.
Enjoy these warm days because they are going fast! Before you know it we will be getting ready for the holidays. Use these tips to help you get a jump start on your fall home maintenance, your home will thank you!