Prepare Your Home for Fall and Winter

Now that the summer season is behind us, it’s time to think about preparing your home for fall and winter. With the colder months incoming, it’s important to protect your home, and yourself, from the harsher weather.

If you live in warmer parts of the US, like California, you don’t need to do quite as much prep for fall and winter. However, there are still some measures you should take in order to better protect yourself and your home.

Take a look at these smart ways to prepare your home for fall and winter:

  • Clean or Replace Your Gutters

Gutters are important because they protect your home and garage from both interior and exterior flooding. Clean them out of leaves and other rubbish, or if they’re falling apart, replace them.

  • Furnace and Chimney Inspection

Have your furnace checked by an HVAC professional to ensure it’s working properly. Don’t wait until an issue comes up in the dead of winter! If you have a chimney, make sure you get it cleaned at least once a year and have it checked for

  • Check Windows and Roof

Check your windows for damage or drafts. Look at the molding and the seal for leaks. To better catch leaks, wet your hand and move your hand around the edge of each window. It’s also important to keep an eye on your roof to spot any missing or damaged shingles. If you spot any issues, call a professional to avoid a small issue turning into a major one.

  • Test Safety Devices

If you don’t already, make sure you have working fire and carbon monoxide detectors. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), homeowners should have fire alarms on every level, both inside and outside sleeping areas. The rule for carbon monoxide detectors is the same.

  • Fix Cracks in Your Driveway

Cracks in your driveway are more than unseemly, they could turn into a major issue later on. If you live in areas with snow or colder temps, know that water could leak into cracks, freeze, and expand–turning that small crack into a major problem. This is an easy fix though, simply use a concrete crack sealer.

  • Drain Outdoor Faucets

If you live in colder climates, make sure you turn off all outdoor faucets and drain them before the first snowfall. If water freezes, you could risk your pipes bursting.  Older homes may have a valve inside the home that needs to be turned off.

By doing all these home maintenance tasks, you and your home could be better prepared for the changing climate.

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