Especially in the northern part of the U.S. with a visit from Old Man Winter right around the corner, fall is a great time to tackle home maintenance projects. We compiled a list of some projects you may want to consider to help you button up your home for the harsh months ahead.
Exterior projects
If the phrase spring thaw resonates with you, you live in a part of the country where melting snow and thawing earth can be synonymous with drainage disaster. Since the ground shifts and settles over time, it’s wise to assess the drainage situation around the foundation of your house each fall. Be sure all drainage is directed away from your foundation and avoid a costly wet spring basement.
Winter shows no mercy and often unleashes its fury in the form of heavy snow and high winds. Trim any dead or overhanging branches so they don’t damage your roof, windows or siding during those gnarly winter storms.
Clean out your gutters and downspouts so WHEN the heavy autumn rains fall and WHEN the winter finally gives way to spring, your gutters are ready to direct water down and away from your roof and siding.
While we’re on the subject, closely examine roofing and siding as well as your home’s foundation and carefully repair any gaps or cracks so moisture and mice can’t weasel their way in!
Examine the structural integrity of your exterior stairs and railings and make necessary repairs to secure them so they will withstand the added load of heavy snow.
Interior projects
There’s no better time to service your furnace or boiler. Make sure your heat source is running safely and efficiently so you can stay warm and safe during the cooler months ahead.
Be sure to sweep your fireplace or woodstove chimney to clean out creosote and prevent chimney fires. Then enjoy peace of mind and the warmth of wood heat all winter long.
Lint buildup in your dryer vent can greatly decrease its efficiency and can even become a fire hazard during months of low humidity. Do it yourself or hire a duct cleaning specialist but be sure to cross this “to do” off your list.
Test out your smoke alarms and CO2 detectors to make sure they’re operating properly and replace any necessary batteries. Radon can more easily accumulate during months when homes are closed up tightly. If you haven’t had your home tested for radon, there’s no better time.
Increase energy efficiency and decrease your heating bill by applying weatherstripping around drafty windows and door sweeps at the base of drafty doors.
To learn more about fall home maintenance or how Hoyt Exteriors can help you with your siding, roof and deck needs, don’t hesitate to give us a call at 651.212.4965 or email us at info@hoytexteriors.com!