September 2017 - Fall maintenance checklist

Dearest Friends,

Summer stuck around for a little bit longer this year! But the inevitable will come, there is no escaping winter. A little bit of preventive maintenance can save you many headaches over the colder months and into the spring.

1. Clean gutters - Leaves and debris can cause water to pool and contribute to roof leaks and ice damming over the winter. Gutters can be installed with leaf guard options, and in this case you’ll be fine, but if not, a little bit of elbow grease and a ladder is all you will need. It is often easiest to clean the gutters after a light rain. Keeping tree branches from overhanging on your roof will also reduce the amount of work required to keep the gutters clean.
2. Drain hoses and store, turn off outside faucets - Most newer homes will likely have a frost free valve that should be inspected to make sure it is functioning well. It is important that if you turn off the shut off valve inside the home, that you open the faucet outside, this will prevent water from being trapped in the pipe and freezing, causing the pipe to crack.
3. Check caulking - Cracked and missing caulking can make your home drafty and allow frost to get in and make the cracks bigger.
4. Inspect and clean chimneys for wood burning fireplaces - Chimney fires can burn undetected or they can spread to your home, in either case it’s a real safety issue. Regular maintenance on your chimney will reduce your risks.
5. Check dryer vents for build-up of lint - Another fire hazard in the home is from dryer lint which is extremely flammable. Make sure that vents are clear from debris and have not been damaged by the sun. Broken vents can also be a great entrance for new roommates (rodents).
6. Schedule furnace inspection - Schedule your furnace inspection before it gets too cold so that you can skip the long waits!
7. Check outdoor lighting - It will be darker for longer now, so make sure your walkways are well lit to prevent slips and falls

It is sad to say goodbye to another summer, especially one that didn’t really feel like summer, but we are ready for cozy fires and spending time with loved ones over the holidays!!

Sincerely,
 

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