The fall season is upon us, which means the leaves will inevitably begin to fall and the weather will cool off. While home maintenance is relatively easy during the warmer spring and summer months, it takes more effort to prepare your home for the changing weather. This review offers insights into how you can prepare your home for the fall and winter seasons.
Tips for preparing your home for the fall season
You can prepare your home for the fall season by cleaning the gutters and downspouts, repairing damage to the exterior of your home and caulking and weather stripping openings (i.e. doors and windows). You should also consider gathering and organizing your winter supplies and cleaning your chimney and heating system.
Clean the gutters and downspouts
The gutters and downspouts allow rainwater to run off the roof of your house and properly drain away from your home. If they are clogged with leaves and other debris, which is often the case after leaves fall, then it may cause problems, such as flooding around your home and roof damage. Be sure to clean off your gutters and downspouts before the leaves begin to fall.
Repair any exterior damage
It is much more challenging to have repairs done in the winter as it is colder and more challenging to work. In the summer, exterior repairs (especially roof repairs) can be incredibly hot. The fall, however, is a great opportunity to make repairs to the exterior of your home. This includes replacing damaged siding, repainting, fixing a damaged or a leaky roof, replacing damaged gutters and more.
Caulk and weather strip your home
If cold weather finds its way into your home during the late fall and winter months, it could cause a significant increase to your energy bill each month. To prevent this, consider caulking and weather stripping your home. For best results, hire a professional. However, you can do it yourself if you are on a budget. Look for all areas of your home in which outdoor air could enter or indoor air could leave, such as windows, doors, attic doors, walls, the roof and the foundation.
Prepare your winter supplies
It is also helpful to arrange all winter supplies you may need, such as firewood and snow shovels. This ensures you are able to easily access them when necessary. You should also consider the possibility of a power outage at your home if a winter storm occurs. Be sure you have flashlights and candle stocks, and of course, do not forget to have some fun board games to play with the family in case the power goes out one night.
Clean your chimney and heating system
You should clean your chimney once every year at the least. Early to middle fall is a good time to clean your chimney before you start using it. Otherwise, the quality of air inside your home could become compromised. The same goes for HVAC systems, which should be cleaned and inspected before you begin using them in the late fall and winter months.
EXIT Realty Bob Lamb & Associates is Murfreesboro’s most innovative real estate team.
EXIT Realty Bob Lamb & Associates
2630 Memorial Blvd, Murfreesboro, TN 37129