As beautiful as fall is, homeowners know it’s the time to hunker down and prepare for winter. Fierce winds, ice, and snow can take their toll on your home. No one wants to spend the season with a leaky roof or faulty furnace. Instead, prepare for a cozy and comfortable winter by getting all your home maintenance tasks out of the way early. Check out our fall maintenance checklist for homeowners and cross these essential tasks off your to-do list.
Run the Heating System
Before you start using your heating system in winter, turn it on and make sure everything is working properly. Clean out vents, replace the filters, and keep an ear out for unusual sounds or other signs of trouble.
It’s also a good idea to have a professional give your heating system a tune-up, especially if it’s not performing well. By getting this part of your fall maintenance checklist out of the way early, you can rest easy knowing your heater is ready to go when the cold hits.
Check Your Roof
Unfortunately, roofs tend to be problem magnets for homes. Wind, rain, and other elements can damage shingles and create leaks, which in turn lead to drafts and moisture problems. These issues are bad enough when the weather is nice, but they’re even worse in the winter.
Before the temperature drops too low, take some time to inspect your roof. Look for damaged or missing shingles. Pay special attention to the areas around vents or chimneys. If you find cracks or other damage, call the professionals out as soon as possible. Clean out the gutters to ensure proper drainage once winter starts.
Insulation Inspection
Insulation is an essential part of having a comfy, cozy winter. It’s not always easy to say how often you should insulate your home. While high-quality insulation can last for decades, pests and water damage can cause problems.
Has your air conditioning been working overtime this summer? Is your home struggling to regulate temperature? These are signs that it might be time for an insulation replacement. Call an expert in to take a look at your home’s insulation and find the best way to fix it before winter comes.
