Fall Season Home Maintenance

It is important not to defer maintenance on your home as it can lead to decreased the value of the property or affect the safety and health of the homeowner.  As such it is important to perform maintenance with the seasons. Fall is a good time to catch up on simple key maintenance items that help to keep your home in tip top shape.

Roof & Gutters:
If you haven't had your roof inspected in some time this is a good time to do it.  Check for damaged shingles,nail pops and damaged flashing. Inspect for any penetrations that may allow rodents/pests to set up residence in your attic. Gutters should be well secured to the eaves and free of leaks in corners.  If you have trees overhanging your roof this is a good time to add gutter guards to protect gutters and overhangs to reduce blockages in gutters and downspouts.

Exteriors:
Spring rains and pollen followed by summer temps and humidity can lead to mold, mildew, and wood rot.  Fall is a great time to wash exterior surfaces and replace any trim that has signs of damage or rot.  Consider using composite moldings where trim is in contact with patios, decks, driveways or porches.  Composite moldings will deter rot and reduce maintenance costs. After cleaning and repairs determine if your home requires a new paint job. Chaulky faded finishes and peeling paint is a good sign that it is time to paint. Caulk any gaps between window and door trim where they meet siding and brick to reduce air infiltration and to increase energy efficiency.

Check decks for loose deck boards and railings.  Raised nails or screws should be replaced to reduce foot and tripping injuries.  Have your deck washed while the rest of the exterior is being washed and retreat with stain or paint if needed to increase material longevity.

Interiors:
We all have heard that when we set the clocks forward or back it is always important to replace batteries in all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.  Stay the course with this timely reminder and check all units for proper operation and replace any that no longer are functioning properly.

With cold weather around the corner it is a good time to have your furnace and water heater inspected.  Ensure that furnace gas burners are clean, that your water heater is free of leaks, ensure flue pipes are free of rust and that your furnace filters are replaced.  This will insure your systems are operating at peak performance and are energy efficient. 

The holiday season brings festivities that add lighting and increase power usage in the home.  Have your electrical panel (load center) inspected for loose wiring, connections or defective breakers.  Check all GFIC receptacles, lamp/power cords, holiday lights, and replace any frayed or damaged cords.  

Fireplaces should be inspected to ensure that your flue is free of obstructions and that the flue damper is operating properly.  Check the fire box and for cracked firebricks or panels. Review all gas log connections.  If you are burning wood in your fireplace check the flue for creosote build up and have the fireplace cleaned to prevent a chimney fire. 

When you are looking for a professional contractor reach out to a trusted NARI professional. 

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