As the temperatures start to cool, leaves fall from the trees, and cooler weather settles in, you can take some key steps to prepare your home for these seasonal changes.
Checking windows and doors for air leaks may help you save energy costs as colder temperatures settle in during the winter. If your utility bill seems especially high, you may want to check for cold air leaks that may impact your energy bills.
Also, cleaning your chimney may offset unnecessary smoke build-up in your home, which can also be costly from smoke damage.
You may want to schedule a furnace tuneup with a professional HVAC company, as maintenance is the key to offsetting unnecessary large system expenses when they fail.
It is also important to test all of your smoke detectors. If you do not have them, consider combination smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure your and your family's safety this winter. If you have questions about fire and carbon monoxide safety, check with your local fire department, as they are often more than happy to help you make your home safe.
If you have irrigation systems, you will need to winterize your sprinkler systems and disconnect and empty garden houses as you move into colder weather to ensure pipes do not freeze and burst.
Simple maintenance activities can save money down the road!!
It is also important to clean the gutters. However, please consider having someone professionally assist you as ladder accidents occur!
When performing home inspections, often, well-maintained homes shine, and buyers are more at ease knowing the homeowner took care of the property. Issues that become major defects can often be handled by consistent and proper maintenance.
We hope you find these suggestions helpful. As always, if you have any questions regarding your home inspection needs, we are happy to discuss them with you.
Sincerely,
Joe Cusumano, Owner
Bayside Home Inspections, LLC
(302) 500-0130
