It’s easy to get tied up in all of the exciting changes that happen in the fall. The mornings have a nice chill, the vegetation changes to beautiful reds, oranges and yellows, the children go back to school. Some of the best parts are football starting and crock pots getting pulled out to start whipping up those great fall soups. While all of this is happening it’s also important to make sure your home is prepared for the winter. Below are a few items to make sure you have in order before the temperature drops and the snow starts flying!
1. Check foundation for cracks and caulk around the area where masonry meets siding, where pipes or wires enter the house and around the windows and door frames to prevent heat from escaping. This also helps water from getting in and freezing which can result in cracks.
2. Inspect exterior walls for peeling paint. “Peeling paint is a sign that the existing paint film is failing and can no longer protect the siding of the building. Left uncorrected, the siding itself will deteriorate.” Carl Minchew, Director, Benjamin Moore Paints
3.After the leaves have fallen, clean out the gutters and downspouts. Clogged gutters are a leasing cause of ice dams.
4. Weather-strip your garage door. Make sure the seal between the garage door and the ground is tight to prevent drafts and keep out small animals.
5. Make sure the roof is in good shape. Inspect for any missing or loose shingles.
(https://www.bobvila.com/articles/1499-fall-home-maintenance-checklist/#.Wbvh2prrsUJ)