Prepare your Home for Cooler Weather.

With the fall season now here and winter approaching, now is the time to prepare your home for the new season. Regular maintenance of the home is critical to its preservation and can add significantly to its resale value. Use this checklist to help prepare your home for the cooler days and frosty nights of fall. 

Yard:

• Rake and compost leaves
• Seed and feed your lawn
• Winterize your sprinkler system
• Mulch flowerbeds
• Drain outside faucets and cover them when appropriate
• Drain and store hoses

Roof:

• Trim limbs and vegetation away from roof
• Inspect roof and roof vents for any needed repairs
• Replace any loose or damaged shingles
• Clean gutters and downspouts

Foundation and Exterior Masonry:

• Clean fireplaces and chimneys
• Check chimney mortar for any deterioration
• Make sure downspouts and grading all direct water away from the house

Doors and Windows:

• Inspect caulking and paint for damage and repair as needed
• Oil door hinges and garage door moving parts
• Make sure all storm windows are securely in position

Heating and Cooling:

• Arrange for annual inspection and cleaning of heating systems
• Rinse off A/C compressor/condensing coil unit to remove debris and dirt
• Consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat
• Change the furnace filter (when needed)
• Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

Plumbing and Interior:

• Inspect and repair any damaged caulking in tubs, showers, sinks, toilets and backsplashes
• Inspect A/C refrigerant lines for missing or damaged insulation
• During wet weather, check ceiling and around all doors and windows for unwanted moisture
• Check attic ventilation
• Make sure dryer vent is clean

You might want to seek professional assistance for some of these suggestions. AmeriSpec inspectors are available to meet your home inspection needs, and are trained to meet or exceed the highest home inspection industry standards. 
To learn more about AmeriSpec, contact Peter Wright at 604-513-1989.