Here are some simple tasks you can get done on your own but others will require help from a professional.
During the fall season, as winter approaches, it’s the perfect time to make sure that your home is properly prepared to stay warm and dry when the temperature drops and snow starts falling.
You should do inspections and make sure that projects to get your property ready are up to date and will ensure that all systems and appliances in your home are working properly. This way you can not only feel at ease and fully enjoy this season, but you will also increase the energy efficiency of your house as well as reduce your electricity and gas bills.
“Prevention is better than cure”. This is a good reminder that we should act wisely and proactively. One of the ways to do this is by carrying out regular inspections to ensure that we’ll be prepared for rain, snow, hail, wind, and any other inclement weather. A timely inspection can save us a lot of money, time, and headaches.
Gutters and downspouts
Clean your gutters and drainpipes frequently to keep them free of blockers such as leaves, branches, debris, etc. It can prevent ice from forming or water pooling, which could affect your roof, siding, or trim. So keep rain gutters and downspouts clean and orient them at an appropriate distance to ensure proper drainage: about 2-4 feet from the foundation.
This is something you could do yourself, but remember that it involves risks and if you don’t feel safe on a ladder, it’s best to hire a professional.
Seals and weather stripping
Check for gaps in window frames or exterior doors on your property. If you happen to find any, you must put a caulk or install new weatherstripping. Also, make sure storm windows are secure. Cover screen doors with glass or replace them if necessary with storm doors for greater energy efficiency.
Roofs
Another important aspect that you should take into account is removing branches and other debris that accumulates on the roof of your property. Early repair or replacement of loose shingles and deteriorating caulking around vents and chimneys is a smart way to keep water out.
If your property has a flat roof, repair any cracked or bubbled joints. If you decide to do this on your own, you should take precautions and be very careful when climbing on the roof. As we already mentioned, the use of ladders involves risks. Check for puddles of water in some areas of the roof.
You can also do this after it rains. If you see water puddled and pooled, it’s a sign that a roof inspection is needed. You will need to contact a professional roofing contractor company to determine why that area has settled and have the problem fixed.
One more thing to think about is the skylights. Call a professional to inspect them to see if the roof or interior seals have deteriorated, are in good condition, need re-caulking, or require specialized maintenance.
Fireplaces and ovens
It is also advisable to maintain the chimneys well so that they can withstand the winter season, which includes a good cleaning and of course making sure that the flow is not obstructed, that it has accumulated soot, and that there are no gas or water leaks.
Inside your home, you must verify that your gas oven works properly and does not present carbon accumulation. You can hire a professional chimney sweeper that will give you the guarantee of their work and offer you the security of enjoying your New Year with the security of baking everything you want with peace of mind.
