Although the weather is still warm, fall is just around the corner and with it comes the need to prepare your home for winter before it gets to cold. These tips can help you create an easy checklist to be sure you don’t miss those maintenance chores around the house.
Outside your home, you will want to inspect the roof for loose or missing shingles, damaged flashing or signs of leaks. You can do this from the ground, but leaning a ladder against the home if you are able will give you a better view. Clean out leaves, debris and obstructions from gutters. Check walls for damage, cracks or areas that need repair.
You will want to check windows and doors for air leaks, weather stripping that may be damaged or caulking that needs to be replaced. Remove weeds and repair cracks in sidewalks or driveways to keep water from causing cracks when it freezes. Disconnect and drain all hoses from outdoor faucets. Be sure to shut off the water to prevent frozen pipes. Rake leaves, trim branches and prepare your lawn for winter. This is the time to aerate, seed and fertilize. Remove outdoor furniture from decks or patios, inspect for damage, repair cracks and apply water-repellant stains or treatments.
Inside, schedule a furnace inspection by a professional and replace filters. Test all detectors, including smoke, carbon monoxide and others. Inspect chimneys for damage and schedule a cleaning if you have a wood-burning fireplace. Insulate any exposed plumbing and check for leaks. If you have a tank water heater, consider draining and refilling it. Check outlets for loose connections as well. Clean out lint and debris from your dryer vent and ensure your fire extinguishers are in working order. Â Now is also the time to stock up on winter supplies like salt, shovels and emergency kits.
Performing these simple tasks can help you prevent costly repairs in the winter.
