While we are still holding on to summer, tomorrow's high of 61 degrees isgoing to quickly remind us that fall is right around the corner. So instead of waiting until it is freezing outside to do the home maintenance needed to get your home ready for winter, might as well tackle it now while it is still pretending to be summer.
While we are still holding on to sutomorrow's high of 61 degrees is go
Below is a helpful list of items to check on your house before winter hits us like a ton of bricks. Thanks to TonySeigertwithSafe Home Inspectionfor this handy list.
Caulk the Exterior
Any gap on the outside of your home may be a spot for caulking. Check the corners, windows, doors, areas where masonry joins siding, or places where vents and other objects extend from walls. Read manufacturer's directions to select the appropriate caulk for the task.
Check the Insulation
This is a good time to check the condition of insulation, especially in an older home. If your wallsaren't insulated, professionally installed blown-in insulation will probably pay for itself in a couple of years.
Check the Gutters
Make sure the downspouts and gutters are not clogged, smashed or open at joints to prevent moisture or ice damage later.
Check the Weather Stripping
Check weather stripping and add as necessary to doors and windows to keep moisture and cold air out. Various fixes are readily available (gaskets, thresholds, etc.) to fill gaps.
Clean the Dryer Vent
You should do this twice a year, in fall and spring. Carefully move the dryer away from the wall, unplug it and vacuum behind it. (If it's a gas dryer, turn off the gas supply to the dryer at the appliance shutoff valve.) Unhook the tube that leads to the vent and clear as much lint from the tube as possible. Carefully remove the outside vent cover, and using a shop vacuum or a dryer lint brush, clean as far up the vent as you can from the outside.
Check the Storm Windows
Repair and clean cracked or dirty storm windows before installing them.
Use Vent Covers to Help Protect Pipes
Have cut-to-size plywood or foam vent covers available for the cold side of your house and place them against the exterior basement vents during extra cold spells to help keep your pipes from freezing. Be sure to uncover them in the spring; the vents are needed to prevent moisture accumulation when it's warmer.
Keep Rodents Out
In the fall, mice, rats and squirrels seek warm, dry places such as your house. Mice can squeeze through a quarter-inch opening and rats half-inch opening. Check that all exterior vents are screened, and that there are no gaps underneath windows, doors and garage doors.
Socials