.png)
Cooler temperatures, a colorful canopy and raking up leaves: Fall is coming. As you transition to wearing light sweaters and sipping pumpkin-spiced lattes, it's a great time to assess what your home needs and prepare for the upcoming season - and it's a good time to remind our friends and neighbors.
Preventative maintenance will definitely save you from unexpected expenses or emergency repairs and may also reduce energy costs. Here is a checklist of fall maintenance items:
1. Get your furnace inspected: Hire a professional to check for any leaks, replace the filter if needed and check heating efficiency. Our friend at Back Bay Air and Heat will be able to help you service your HVAC unit.
2. Draft-proof your home: Check around the edges of your window and doors to detect any possible air leaks. If required, repair the caulking and replace seals to prevent heat loss.
3. Test your home safety devices: Make sure your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are up and running. This is extremely important and should not be overlooked. Replace batteries, if needed.
4. Roof check: Do a visual inspection of your roof using binoculars. If you spot missing or damaged shingles, it's time to get them fixed. Need an expert roofer? Contact us!
5. Inspect home exterior: Check for cracks and holes, and repair them or hire a professional. You can also hire a home inspector that will inspect you entire home. Need a home inspector? Contact us!
6. Clean the gutters: Remove all leaves and debris to ensure gutters are clear. Check for any possible leaks. Don't feel bad if you can't get on top of the roof, call a professional that can clear the gutter for you at a reasonable price.
7. Examine your surroundings: Check for any damaged trees that could pose a potential hazard, trim landscaping, close your pool and put away any seasonal furniture and yard equipment.
Source: Pillar To Post home inspectors.