Following the old adage of “an ounce of
prevention is worth a pound of cure” is especially true when it comes to protecting
your home. Those little annoying things like the dripping faucet or the
cracking and peeling paint around the gutters and windows can become major
expenses when ignored.
Whether you complete your home’s necessary upkeep or hire
professionals to assist you, be sure to utilize the following tips. By taking
just a couple of seasonal weekends, your tasks can become manageable and create
a safe and comfortable environment for your loved ones and those who visit your
home. Having a regular fall maintenance plan through the proper care of your
home ensures a substantial return on your money when it comes time to sell.
Fall Maintenance Tips
·
Service
your furnace or heating systems by a qualified service company.
·
Lubricate
the circulating pump on the hot water heating system.
·
Clean or replace air filters each month
during the heating season.
·
Vacuum
electric baseboard heaters to remove dust.
·
Remove
the vent covers on forced air systems and vacuum inside the ducts.
·
Check
and replace weather stripping, if needed, around windows, skylights and all
doors leading outside.
·
Ensure
all doors windows and skylights close and operate correctly.
·
Cover
any outside air conditioning window units.
·
Ensure
that the ground around your home slopes away from the foundation wall so that
water does not drain into your basement or create ponds around the foundation.
·
Clean
leaves from roofs and downspouts
·
Test
downspouts to ensure proper drainage from the roof.
· Check the sump pump line to ensure proper operation and to ensure that there are no line obstructions or visible leaks.