With the crisp air and falling leaves, there’s no denying that Fall is upon us! While it’s a delightful season to revel in, it’s also the perfect time to give your home a thorough inspection. Preparing your house for the colder months ahead is crucial. Here’s a friendly guide on what to look for during your Fall home inspection.
1. Check for Drafts
Ever felt that sneaky little cold breeze even with all doors and windows shut? That’s a draft. Check for drafts around windows and doors. Simple weatherstripping can often do the trick in sealing those gaps and keeping your home cozy.
Actionable Tip: Light a candle and move it around window frames and door edges. If the flame flickers, you’ve got a draft!
2. Gutter Maintenance
Those colorful leaves can become a menace when they clog your gutters. A blocked gutter can lead to water damage.
Actionable Tip: Consider installing gutter guards. They keep out leaves and debris, making maintenance a breeze.
3. Roof Inspection
Winter can be hard on roofs. Before the cold sets in, inspect your roof (or hire a pro) for any damaged or missing shingles.
Actionable Tip: Use binoculars to inspect from the ground if you're uncomfortable using a ladder.
4. Chimney and Fireplace
There's nothing like the comfort of a fireplace on a chilly night. Ensure it's cleaned professionally to avoid chimney fires.
Actionable Tip: Burn creosote logs before your professional cleaning; they help in reducing the creosote buildup.
5. Check the Furnace
Before you need to run your furnace daily, have it inspected. Changing the filters is essential to ensure it runs efficiently.
Actionable Tip: Mark your calendar to replace or clean filters regularly. Some units require monthly attention.
6. Inspect Safety Devices
Check smoke detectors, carbon monoxide devices, and fire extinguishers. It's a small task, but it ensures your safety throughout the season.
Actionable Tip: Use the 'test' button on your alarms to check they’re working. Remember to replace batteries if needed.
7. Winterize Outdoor Faucets and Irrigation Systems
Frozen pipes can burst. Drain garden hoses and disconnect them from outdoor faucets. Turn off water to exterior faucets and ensure the system is fully drained.
Actionable Tip: Cover your outdoor faucets with foam insulators. They're inexpensive and can save you a ton in potential repair costs.
8. Pests Check
Fall is when pests and rodents look for a cozy home – ensure it’s not yours. Check for small gaps or holes in your home's exterior.
Actionable Tip: Seal small gaps using caulk and larger gaps with steel wool to deter pests.
Giving your home a thorough check in the Fall can save you from potential troubles during Winter. With these actionable tips, your home will not only be ready for the colder months but also safe and efficient. So, grab that pumpkin-spiced latte and get inspecting!