Before you break out the long sleeve shirts, think about what weather preparations need to be made around your home. Check out some cooler weather tips for your home below.
Inspect your roof
One of the biggest assets on your home is your roof. Damage to your roof can invite unwanted pests or water into your house. Look for damaged, lose or missing shingles, rusted flashing, or cracks around vents and ridge caps. If you are not wanting to climb on your roof, hire a roofing inspector to review your roof for potential issues.
Look for air leaks
Air can seep into your home through cracks and openings. Feel around doors, windows and baseboards for air coming into your home. Check that weatherstripping and caulk around these areas is in good shape. If not, replace it.
Prepare equipment
With the changing of the seasons comes a change in the type of power equipment you use. Read your owner’s manual to determine what steps you should take to winterize your summer power equipment. Also, take a moment to ensure your winter power equipment is in good shape. Check to see if your snowblower starts or if you need to replace an ice scraper, shovel or roof rake.
Check detectors
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are there to warn you of an issue occurring in your home. Make sure that you test the functionality of your detectors on a regular basis by adding a reminder to your calendar. Be sure to change the batteries in your detectors or replace detectors that are not operational.
Organize
When cooler weather arrives, it’s a good time to organize your garage or storage area. Get rid of items you no longer use or that are broken. You can rearrange your space, so cooler weather equipment is at the front for easy access.
Check your furnace
Try and have your furnace inspected at least once a year by a heating and cooling company. A furnace inspection will determine if your furnace is in good working order and that there are no issues. Plus, by getting an inspection, you will be taking a preventative measure in ensuring your furnace is ready for cooler temps.
By preparing now, you can be proactive in ensuring your home will last through a colder season and into spring.
Source: Bennett, J. (2020, April 7). The ultimate maintenance checklist for every season. Better Homes & Gardens. Retrieved October 1, 2021, from https://www.bhg.com/home-improvement/advice/home-maintenance-checklist/
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