Fall is officially here and it's the perfect time to get some maintenance projects done around the house before winter weather and shorter days set in.
"Owning a home takes year-round maintenance, but it doesn't have to be overwhelming," said Kazantzis Real Estate Owner and Agent Andrea Kazantzis. "By breaking things down by season it's a very manageable way to keep your home in tip-top shape, avoiding bigger problems down the road."
Gutters and Downspouts
Once most of the leaves have fallen, you'll want to make sure you clear out your gutters. Clogged gutters can cause water to pool, putting your foundation, driveway, and walkway at risk for damage. In addition, clogged gutters could put you more at risk for ice dams in the winter.
While you're clearing the gutters, be sure to check all support brackets as well.
Windows and Doors
Now that the temperatures are starting to cool, swap out screens for your storm windows and doors.
While you're doing that, check the weather stripping or caulking around the windows and replace it if necessary. This prevents drafts and lowers your heating costs.
Plumbing and Insulation
Shut off the water source for the outside faucet and drain and store your hose. If you have inground sprinklers, you'll want to shut off the water and have the lines blown out to keep them from freezing (and possibly bursting) during the winter.
Inside your home, make sure pipes are well-insulated, especially those along exterior walls.
While checking insulation, make sure you seal up any cracks and crevices to keep mice and other critters from seeking warm refuge in your home.
Your Yard
Check your trees and trim any limbs that are close to powerlines or the roof of your home. You don't want them coming down in a winter storm and knocking out power. It's also a good time to prune trees and shrubs so they come back healthier in the spring.
As for your lawn, the fall is the perfect time to fertilize and reseed. You'll also want to clear the leaves, as a thick layer left over the winter could inhibit growth next year.
Heating
Before the temperatures really plummet, you'll want to make sure your heating unit is operational and working at peak performance. Replace filters in your furnace and clean your ducts to increase both airflow and air quality. Consider scheduling a service appointment for your heating system to pinpoint potential problems.
If you have a fireplace, you may also want to get your fireplace and chimney inspected. Make sure your flue seals tightly when closed, as it could really affect your home's energy efficiency. Make sure you have a chimney cap, which keeps critters from entering your home.
Now's the time to also stock up on wood or pellets.
Safety Check
Fires and carbon monoxide deaths tend to go up when the temperatures drop. However, you can help prevent a tragedy by taking a few simple steps.
Test smoke and carbon dioxide detectors and replace batteries. You should also check the expiration date on your fire extinguisher.
Dryer fires are more likely to occur in the fall and winter because the dry weather increases static electricity, which can ignite lint that has built up. Fall is the perfect time to clear out the lint to avoid any issues. You can do it yourself or hire someone.
By doing a few of these chores over the course of the next few weeks, you'll be able to enter the holiday season knowing your home is ready for the next season is ahead.