How to Ready the Exterior of your House for Winter
October 14, 2014Like it or not, winter is just around the corner. October may seem early, but getting ahead of the winter rush can be beneficial. There are plenty of chores to get done before the first storm officially hits – both inside and outside your home.
This month, we will take a look at the exterior jobs that need to be addressed before the cold comes.
Check the roof.
Leaky shingles can lead to some serious damage, especially in places you would never check to think, like the attic. A temporary repair may address the situation in the short term, but don’t be afraid to hire a handyman to get the work done right. Make sure you get this done as soon as possible; a wet or snow covered roof can be slippery and very dangerous.
Clean the gutters.
Clogged or backed up gutters can create water damage and invite unwanted pests into your house. Water damage leads to weak walls due to mold and mildew. By clearing out the gutters, water will flow freely instead of creating pesky water dams. Insects will flock to standing water and lay eggs that can leave your house infested. Clean those falling leaves out now and keep the bugs away.
Drain your sprinkler and lawn-irrigation systems.
Frozen pipes can have some serious consequences to your irrigation investment. Make sure both your sprinkler spigots, as well as your lawn-irrigation systems, are fully drained before freezing weather hits. Make sure your pipes are in good condition during the winter – sometimes water can remain, expand, and rupture your pipes.
Mulch your leaves.
Consider mowing your leaves instead of raking them. A well-mulched lawn can nourish your lawn for the brutal winter ahead. Mulching blades cut leaves to dime-sized pieces and adding a fall fertilizer can give your lawn a good layer of protection come December.
Sweep your chimneys.
Any fireplace or heating appliance needs to be cleaned and in good condition during these last few warm weather months. Chimney fires and carbon monoxide leaks can be a result of a dirty chimney. During the cold our chimneys may expand and contract. Make sure you keep a watchful eye for cracks and gaps.
Did we leave anything off the list? Leave us a comment and let us know how you’re prepping the homefront for winter!
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