As the Summer months start to draw to an end, it is essential to prepare your home for the fall and winter seasons. Whether you just moved in or have been living in your house for years, proper maintenance is key to keeping your home in good shape. In this article, we’ve listed 10 things you can do around your home to help prevent emergency repairs.
Check for leaks and repair them: Before the temperature hits the freezing point, make sure to check your windows and doors for drafts and leaks. Sealing these areas will help reduce energy bills and prevent water entry, which can lead to mold.
Inspect your roof: Look for cracked or missing shingles, and check for water or hail damage. Hiring a professional roofer to take care of these issues can save you money in the long run.
Clean your gutters: Ensure your gutters are free of debris and leaves that may have accumulated during the summer months. This will prevent water damage and clogging throughout the fall and winter.
Check your HVAC system: Before the cold weather hits, have your furnace inspected and tuned up. By doing so, you’ll save money on heating bills and experience fewer breakdowns.
Seal your windows: Keep the cold air out and warm air inside by sealing your windows. You can use caulking or weather stripping for this task.
Inspect and clean your fireplace: If you have a fireplace, ensure it’s clean and functioning properly. Schedule a chimney sweeping, if necessary, to avoid fire hazards.
Store outdoor furniture: Before the snow flies, store your outdoor furniture or cover it securely. This will prolong its lifespan and prevent damage from harsh weather conditions.
Inspect your trees and vegetation: Assess trees and vegetation around your home to ensure they won’t cause damage during fall and winter storms. Trim any overhanging branches and remove dead trees that could fall on your home, or that could break under heavy snowfall.
Test your smoke and CO2 detectors: As you prepare your home, check your detectors and ensure they are working. This is a simple task that can help save lives.
Clean and organize the garage so you can protect your vehicle: Cold weather can negatively impact your car's battery performance. Keeping your car in the garage helps maintain a more moderate temperature, making it easier to start your vehicle in the morning and reducing the strain on the battery.
As summer comes to an end, it’s crucial to perform end-of-summer maintenance tasks around your home to prepare for fall and winter. By following these tips, you’ll keep your home in great condition and avoid issues like leaks, drafts, high energy bills, and a chilly car that won’t start. With the proper upkeep, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your home is ready for whatever the changing seasons bring.
This story is brought to you by Great West Media Content Studio. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff.
