The weather is still lovely, and there may be a few more weeks before the temperatures turn cold and the forecast becomes unpredictable. Snow, ice and freezing temps can result in costly damage to your home. While you certainly want to enjoy the temperate weather on your days off, you will also want to make sure you are taking care of those autumn chores that can go a long way toward protecting your home.
For some of these projects, you will need professional help. These professionals might get booked up quickly, so making your appointments now is a smart idea. This includes a chimney sweep and inspection, fireplace inspection, HVAC inspection and maintenance, and tree trimmer. The rest of the chores you can probably handle on your own.
Don’t put it off
Weatherizing your home has a number of benefits, including lowering your heating bills and eliminating many dangerous risks. For example, cleaning your chimney and tuning your heating system is a good way to maximize the efficiency of your heat source while removing any soot or blockages that can place you at risk of a fire. Other ways to weatherize include the following:
- Removing the leaves and debris from your gutters and downspouts
- Checking your roof for missing shingles or loose flashing
- Insulating your pipes and sealing cracks to prevent frozen water pipes
- Sealing doors and windows with weather-stripping or caulk
- Adding insulation to your crawlspace and attic
- Cleaning lint buildup from your dryer vents
- Check your property for tree or shrub branches that might cause trouble if you get a heavy ice or snowstorm
You might even consider swapping your old windows with new, energy-efficient replacement windows.
Prepare for the worst
There are few things more worrisome than losing electricity during a winter storm. You may not know how long you will be without power, and this could mean days without heat or the means to cook food. Make a list of those provisions you will need if the power goes out, and start now building your emergency supplies. This could include firewood, a solid axe, lanterns, water and perhaps a generator.
When you have completed your list of autumn chores, you can look forward to a cozy winter no matter what the weather brings.