Your home is a valuable asset, which requires regular maintenance. Spending some time now to prepare for Autumn and Winter can save you money later. The best method to cover all bases and to prepare your home for the coming seasons is to create a plan from the inside to the outside.

Fix Drafty Areas

Focus your plan on the internal part of your home first. That way, falling leaves won’t result in having to redouble efforts on your landscaping. The other reason to begin indoors is to seal off any drafty areas around windows and doors before tackling exterior maintenance.

HVAC

Before summer ends, consider contacting your HVAC specialist to inspect and tune up your furnace. Early contact allows you to get the jump on maintaining mechanical systems in your home. Your HVAC tech will also check carbon monoxide emissions from your water heater. Don’t forget to have your HVAC specialist test all home safety devices like your carbon monoxide, radon, smoke, and heat detectors.

Also, since this is the end of the summer season, have your HVAC technician check out and tune up your AC system before you prepare to cover the outdoor unit. If you have an outdoor generator, this should also be inspected.

Plumbing

The end of summer is the best time to have your plumber check your piping system. This should be done annually to prevent any potential pipes from freezing. If pipes need insulation, the cost for this is relatively inexpensive and ensures your pipes are protected from the cold.

Gutters and Downspouts

Gutters and downspouts should be free of debris to prevent interior damage to your home. Downspouts should move water away from your home’s foundation. If your home has wooden fascia beneath your gutter system, be sure to inspect this as well.

Roof

Give your roof a thorough inspection for any missing shingles or potential “weak” spots that need repair. This applies to new and older homes. Clear away debris from exterior attic vents so air flows freely.

Windows and doors

Exterior windows and doors should be inspected and caulked to prevent drafts. This is a cost saving feature that keeps your home toasty warm all winter.

On to Landscaping Preparations

Take the time to remove all dead limbs from trees because limbs hitting your home can cause damage to your gutters, roof, and windows. Mulch around plants and trees to protect them from ice. Give your lawn a thorough raking and aeration to remove dead grasses. This will save you time and money when spring arrives.

Feel free to contact us for more information or to chat about your home today!