It’s Fall Ya’ll! With the season here and the weather changing, it’s the perfect time to get outside and work on some of those home maintenance fall projects. We’ve got a whole host of ideas to get you started.
Gutter Check
Clear all twigs, leaves, branches, and other debris from your gutters. Check for any leaks, holes, loose gutter spikes, or other signs of damage. Make repairs where needed.
Check downspouts for proper drainage. Look for any clogs or damages. Check that water is being diverted away from the home by at least 4-5 feet. Add a downspout extender or splash block if needed.
Pipe Check
The last thing you want in the cooler season is water damage. Being observant and taking good care of your pipes will help prevent leaks or bursts that can occur with freezing temperatures. Check that pipes are properly insulated and take proper steps to prevent frozen pipes.
Know where your main water shut-off valve is located so that in the event of a burst pipe, leak, or flood, you can turn off the water quickly.
Drain your irrigation system to avoid water damage from freezing temperatures. Drain all garden hoses and disconnect from faucets. Turn off water valves to exterior pipes as an extra precaution against water drips.
If you are anticipating a cold winter, wrapping exterior pipes with heating tape can help save energy and protect them from freezing.
Water Heater Check
Replace filters in your heating system so it can run efficiently. Water heaters should be checked annually and have maintenance done every three years by a professional. Look for any signs of corrosion, leaks, or a tank that bulges.
Replace filters in your heating system so it can run efficiently. Water heaters should be checked annually and have maintenance done every three years by a professional. Look for any signs of corrosion, leaks, or a tank that bulges.
Yard Check
Trim any tree limbs that are low hanging, close to power lines, or hitting your roof. Storms that bring heavy snow and ice can cause damage to roofs and other exterior parts of the home risking possible water damage or other destruction.
Do a perimeter walk around your property to check for tree and plant root growth that may be affecting piping and sewage lines. Look over any exposed pipes for wear and tear. If there is heavy damage replace as soon as possible.
Once temperatures drop, bring in any outdoor furniture to prevent wear and tear from harsh winter conditions.
Roof Inspection
Always stay safe when checking out a roof. If you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, hire a licensed professional to check for wear and tear. Look for rust spots or signs of leaks and gaps on flashing around skylights, pipes, and chimneys. Check for signs of damage including cracked, buckled, or missing shingles. If shingles are damaged or missing, they should be replaced immediately.
If you have a steep roof or multistory house, be sure to stay safe. Binoculars can be used from the ground to make assessments.
Winter weather home readiness is an important step in damage prevention.
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