Fall is in full swing in Westchester and Fairfield Counties. Falling leaves, crisp breeze and the constant drum of rain create the perfect environment to curl up next to the fireplace. However, the changing weather can also create some problems around your home. Take some time for fall maintenance before you experience a disaster. A few hours of patching and inspecting now can save you from a lot of future trouble. Follow these home maintenance tips to prevent fire and water damage this fall.
Roof Inspection:
Grab a ladder and look over your roof. Replace any missing shingles, patch visible cracks and make sure your roof is ready to endure the rainy season. This is also a good time to trim tree branches that are near your home. Even stable looking branches can be swept into your roof with a strong gust of wind.
Clean Gutters:
Remove debris like twigs, leaves and nests from your gutter system. Clogged gutters can cause overflow and leakage during the next storm. You want to ensure that rain water has a clear escape path. If water has a chance to sit around your home, it’s only a matter of time until it finds a way to seep inside.
Weatherproof Windows and Doors:
Check your windows and doors for any gaps or cracks. You can fill any openings you find with weather stripping or foam sealant. Lock warm air in and moisture out. This step can save you hundreds in heating bills and mold damage repairs.
Plumbing:
Insulate exposed pipes, especially in your attic or basement. Freezing temperatures can sneak up on you which can cause a leak or burst pipe. Consider lowering the water pressure in your home to reduce the stress on your pipes. If you’re planning on accommodating overnight guests this holiday season, this can be an essential step to prevent damage. In addition, learn how to shut off your water in case of an emergency.
Safety Check:
Even though smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are necessary all year round, Fall is a great time to maintain them. Replace detector batteries and make sure they’re functioning correctly. Another essential home safety item is a fire extinguisher. Place them in the kitchen, near sources of heat and on every level of your home. Last but not least, make sure you have a fire escape plan that is communicated with everyone in your household.
Fall is a fun time of year full of pumpkins, lattes and football. We hope these fall home maintenance tips help to keep it that way. If a disaster occurs in your home, ServiceMaster Superior Cleaning & Restoration Services can help. We are dedicated to serving our community across Westchester and Fairfield Counties. You can expect our thoroughly trained on-site crew to work quickly and communicate effectively with you during the restoration process. We take every opportunity to provide a positive customer experience. Contact us anytime day or night to request a professional damage restoration service.