Homeowners who neglect routine maintenance heading into the colder months may find themselves faced with an expensive repair bill. For example, forgetting to clean the gutters could cause ice to build up and damage your roof. Windows and doors not properly sealed could cause your heating bills to surge.
The New York Times recently highlighted a few maintenance chores for homeowners to do before the weather gets chilly, including:
Examine the exterior. Walk around the house to check for any cracks in the siding or peeling paint. Look up at the roof. Also, after it rains, walk around the house to spot any signs that water isn’t draining away from the house properly or for signs of damaged gutters.
Clean out the gutters. Home maintenance professionals call this chore one of the most important. Gutters direct water away from your siding and roof. A clogged gutter can lead to roof leaks or ice dams in colder weather. Make sure the gutters are cleaned of any leaves and other debris.
Check the windows and doors. Add weather stripping or caulk where cold air is seeping in from around windows or doors. This could make a big difference in utility bills.
Evaluate the heater. Contact a plumber or furnace repair company to prepare the boiler or furnace before the weather turns cold. They’ll clean the equipment and ensure it is working properly.
Check the chimney. A dirty chimney can affect the air quality in a home and even pose a potential fire hazard. The Chimney Safety Institute of America recommends having a chimney inspected annually, cleaning it as needed.
Tend to the pipes. Drain exterior faucets and shut them off before the first freeze. On cold nights, maintenance experts also recommend opening cabinets beneath the sinks to let warm air in and prevent frozen pipes. Also, let a slow drip of water run through them. Pipes must be kept warm.
Source: “Getting the House Ready for Winter,” The New York Times (Nov. 3, 2017)
