As the seasons change and we enter autumn, it’s a great time to do a seasonal checkup on your home. Colder, wetter weather can stress your home’s structures and systems, so it’s wise to give your home some TLC before winter sets in. This can help you avoid expensive, time-consuming problems with your home later on.
Here are the three big things you should check out and fix this month:
1. Inspect your roof: Before the wet winter weather gets started, check your roof for missing or damaged shingles. Not only will this help you avoid leaks, water damage, and mold, but you’ll stay more insulated and save money on heating costs.
2. Flush your water heater: The last thing you want on a cold morning is your water heater to give out and leave you in an unexpectedly cold shower. Since sediment and minerals can build up in your water heater over time, flush the water heater every year to clear out the gunk. If your water is really hard or has a lot of sediment, you can consider flushing it 3-4 times per year. This preventative maintenance helps your water heater last longer and helps it run more efficiently.
3. Check for gaps: The change in seasons means colder weather and, if your home isn’t sealed properly, drafts and leaks. This month, spend some time checking your doors, windows, and any exterior walls for cracks and gaps. If you find any, seal them with caulk or weatherstripping to keep your home insulated and save on heating costs.
This fall is also a great time to start up a new daily habit to avoid costly repairs. It only takes a few extra minutes, but paying attention can save you lots of money.
As you go around your house throughout the day, keep an eye out for smaller issues like loose tiles, leaky faucets, or loose outlets. If you see any, get them fixed ASAP so they don’t turn into those big, expensive problems.
Keeping on top of these seasonal to-dos and making a daily habit of checking your home will help you maintain your home over time and avoid costly fixes.
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