Is Your Home Ready For Winter?
As the weather outside continues to remind us, summer is in the past. You may be considering some repairs around the house to prepare for the cold months of winter. I’ve compiled a list of fall maintenance ideas to help you get started!
Gutters and downspouts
Check to make sure they are working properly.
Fireplace and flue
Repair cracks, and crumbling mortar. Check and replace gasket on woodstove if necessary.
Siding
Inspect exterior caulking, and repair if necessary.
Storm windows and doors
Check for any cracked or broken glass. Tighten or repair loose or damaged frames and repaint if necessary. Replace broken, worn, or missing hardware; tighten and lubricate door hinges and closers, and check for broken or missing glazing.
Weather-stripping
Inspect and repair stripping around windows and doors.
Hot-water heating system
Lubricate pump and motor; bleed air from radiators or convectors.
Forced warm-air heating system
Vacuum heat exchanger surfaces; clean and lubricate blower blades and motor; check fan belt tension and adjust if necessary.
Gas burner
Clean burners and ports.
Oil burner
Lubricate fan and motor bearings.
Thermostat
Clean heat sensor, contact points, and contacts; check accuracy and replace if necessary.
Garage Doors
Clean and lubricate hinges, rollers, and tracks; tighten screws.
Foundation
Check grading for proper slope away from foundation wall.
Trees
Trim back all tree limbs and vegetation away from roof.
Heating
For steam heating, check shut-off valve for leaks and drain lower water cut-off per manufacturer's instructions.
Roof
Inspect roof surface, flashing, and eaves; repair if necessary.
I hope you’ve found this list helpful. If you’re doing any repairs or preventative maintenance that requires the help of professionals, I’d be happy to give you some referrals. I’m also available to answer any of your real estate or home owning questions. You can also find more tips for homeowners on my website! Call if I can be of help to you.
Real Estate Expert, Regina Zak Tomas, 773-520-1522,
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