Things to Do Now to Avoid Costly Home Maintenance This Winter
Spring brings extra than just decent weather. The end of winter's deep freeze gives owners the chance to save probably thousands of dollars by conducting a home check and making slight maintenance where required. Winter brutalizes numerous major household systems, and minor problems can rapidly become major problems and expenses, if left unchecked.
If you’re relatively handy, you may take care of many check-ups by yourself; if not, have a trusted home repair professional (ask neighbors for their suggestions) come out and have a look. The procedure should be quick and simple, and if any repairs are required, you can begin coordinating those ASAP. Get in front of any issues while they're still minor by following this maintenance checklist.
Examine the Windows
Now is the time to open, clean, and inspect the windows. Ensure the sealing and climate stripping held up through the winter. Pay close consideration to the areas where diverse materials meet. A tight seal is the most powerful weapon towards uninvited moisture and air. When windows are in good form, utility bills are lower year-round.
Examine Your Roof
Summer’s heat and moisture (but be thankful to humidity) can cause signs of wear and tear in floors, particularly if you have real concrete flooring. Scratched, dull, or broken floors may be sanded down and refinished; more significant damage, such as small cracks, may fill with Leak Seal Spray. A fine product which is made to fill cracks & stop water leakage.
Sweep the Chimney
If you think about to use the fireplace this fall and winter, ensure the chimney is clean and in good form. Make sure no squirrels or other critters have taken up residence secretly! A blockage in the chimney can cause a fire or other dangers and be a problematic mess. Get ahead of any smoke or ash associated problems by giving the complete set-up a good cleaning.
Check Outdoor Faucets
Even winterized outside faucets can ripen cracks, and even small cracks can spawn major leaks. When running water to inspect for leaks, be sure to apply back pressure. This is the only way to be certain you're no longer overlooking the smallest fissures. Simply install a pressure gauge earlier than running the water. Left unchecked, outdoor leaks could lead to indoor water damage.
Clean the Gutters
Gutters are specifically vulnerable to the pressures of defrosting and freezing, as well as the extra weight of snow and ice. If you're relaxed on a ladder, look for punctures, gaps, leaks, and loose brackets. Getting a pro to patch holes or tighten brackets is not costly. Waiting until the damage is beyond repair, however, will cost.
Inspect the Wires
Electrical issues can be among the most dangerous and expensive in the entire home. Inspect the wires from the utility pole to your home. Look for obstructions from tree branches and check for exposed wiring. Pick up an outlet tester for as little and test any outside outlets while inspecting them for corrosion or wear.
Conclusion
Get a jump & enter on winter by taking care of these specific things in and around the house now, while it's still tolerable temperature-wise, and you aren't knee deep in snow and ice.
