Get Your Home Ready for Fall
Fall home maintenance is important, as it will help protect your home against damage and that is caused by severe winter weather. Draw up a checklist of tasks to prepare your home for the coming months. The following should be on your checklist:
Fall Home Maintenance Includes Having Your Roof Checked by a Professional
The weight from snow and ice can easily damage a roof, particularly one that’s older. Have a professional check your roof for any signs of damaged flashing, missing shingles, or holes. These will cause serious issues like leaks. If they are left unaddressed, they will lead to more expensive problems in the future.
Have Your Home’s Heating System Inspected and Cleaned
Before it gets cold and you will need to rely on heat to stay warm, have your heating system serviced. If you use a fireplace, have the chimney and fireplace cleaned and inspected by a professional to make sure it is safe to use. If you have central heat, the system should also be inspected to make sure that the unit and ductwork are all in good condition and working order.
Prepare Your Home’s Plumbing System for Winter
This is one of the most important tasks on your fall home maintenance checklist. Start by making sure that all exterior spigots and pipes are properly insulated. Cover exterior water faucets and detach all hoses. Also, check the condition of pipes in your basement and crawlspaces.
Applying Weatherstripping Should be on Your Fall Home Maintenance Checklist
Applying weatherstripping around door and window frames before winter will help to keep your home warm during the cold months and reduce energy costs. Check for drafts, particularly at exterior doors, and use door sweeps wherever necessary.
Make it Safe to Navigate Your Property
Prevent accidents in icy weather by making sure that all stairs have strong railings and that all steps are sturdy. Apply anti-slip tape to the stair treads to prevent accidents. Stock up on salt to prevent ice from forming on walkways. Also, inspect your driveway and if any repairs are necessary, have them done before winter arrives.
Cleaning Gutters and Downspouts for Fall Home Maintenance
After the last of the leaves have fallen, grab a ladder and start cleaning your home’s downspouts and gutters. Leaves and debris will clog the gutters, preventing their ability to direct water away from your home. If gutters are clogged, water will pool, potentially causing damage to your siding, roof, and foundation.
Seal Gaps to Keep Pests Away
Once the cold of winter sets in, animals will start looking for a warmer place. A mouse or a rat needs only a small gap to get into your home, but once inside it can do a lot of damage. Keep them outdoors where they belong by filling holes with caulk.
Rake Dead Leaves
A yard covered in leaves looks untidy and can negatively impact your lawn. Leaves retain moisture, which promotes the growth of fungus. They will also prevent your grass from getting nutrients. Wear gloves and use a lightweight rake to get this final fall home maintenance job done easily and quickly.
JW Goad Home Inspections provides home inspection services for the Clarksville area. Contact us to request an appointment.