Even though summer’s not over just yet, the cooler weather and falling leaves will be here before you know it. With the changing seasons, it’s time to perform seasonal maintenance to ensure everything’s operating smoothly when the colder weather approaches. Consider these five tips for preparing your home for fall:
- Make sure your home is properly insulated – Even if your heater is working efficiently, without proper insulation your home will be vulnerable to cold drafts, moisture and energy leaks. If you have been noticing leaks and drafts, your home likely needs insulation repairs. With the highest R-value, closed-cell spray foam insulation is the best insulation product in Roanoke. Contact a spray foam insulation company in Roanoke to examine your home and install spray foam before the weather cools down.
- Examine the heating system – Along with your home’s insulation, you want to check the heating system. You’ll want to clean the vents and filters, and make sure the vents are not being blocked by furniture, curtains or rugs. Also schedule an annual inspection of your heating system.
- Check the fireplace – Inspect your fireplace to ensure the damper opens and closes correctly and that it’s free of leaves, branches and other obstructions. If you spot any damage to your fireplace, it’s best to have a professional come out to inspect it and fix any problems.
- Clean the gutters – During the summer months, your gutters and downspouts may have accumulated dirt, leaves and debris. And, as leaves begin to fall, they can get caught in your gutters and cause clogs. Clogged gutters will prevent your drainage system from working properly. Clean out your gutters and then test them to ensure they are free of leaks and damage.
- Winterize your air conditioner – Once the weather has cooled down and you no longer need your air conditioner, cover up the outdoor unit for winter. If you use removable window units, cover or remove them to prevent drafts. Be sure to unplug and clean them before removing them.
By following these tips and getting a jump start on your fall home preparation, you’ll save yourself time, money and aggravation down the road.
