Fall is just around the corner! It’s easy to get swept up in the pumpkin spice lattes and pretty leaves, but don’t forget to pay extra attention to your home’s exterior during this season too! Check out these home maintenance tips that will prepare your home for a safe and warm winter.
Keep the Gutters Clean
Cleaning your gutters is something that should be on your fall checklist each year. Your gutters are a part of your roofing system. That means that poor gutter maintenance could lead to even bigger issues on your roof! Fall is an especially bad time for gutters because of all the leaves that are, well, falling. Blocked gutters put your roof at risk of water damage and ice dams in the winter. To clean your gutters, you’ll need a good ladder and a pair of thick gloves to protect your hands. Remove any visible debris from the gutters. Once you’ve finished, run water through the gutter system with a garden hose. If water isn’t flowing properly you likely have a blockage in the downspout system out of your view.
Inspect the Roof
Your roof should be inspected at least once a year, and fall is a perfect time! A roofing inspection requires a ladder and knowledge of how to safely maneuver around the top of the roof. Any signs of damage need to be noted for future repairs. Signs of damage include cracks, holes, curling, missing shingles, and so much more! The early signs of damage are especially hard for the untrained eye to notice. Between the safety hazards and the difficulty of identifying roof damages, it’s best to leave this job to the professionals.
Cleaning the Fireplace
If your home has a fireplace, it should be professionally cleaned each fall before more frequent use begins in the winter. Soot and other debris can build up in the fireplace and chimney. Attempting to clean the fireplace yourself is difficult, time-consuming, and will require tools that you likely don’t already own. Save yourself the time and stress by hiring a professional chimney cleaner! They can inspect the fireplace during the cleaning process to ensure your fireplace is safe to use as temperatures continue to drop.
Check for Drafts
Drafts are a common problem, especially in older homes. Take some time to check around each of your exterior windows and doors for signs of a draft. One of the easiest ways to detect a draft is to hold a lit candle and slowly move around the window or door. Do this on a windy day or have someone on the outside hold a fan while you hold the candle inside. If the flame flickers, that means air is getting in. Drafts can sometimes be fixed with a simple recaulking DIY project, while other times it’s a sign you’re due for an upgrade. Consult a window and door contractor to take a closer look if you find drafts around the home!
Contact Nor’Easter Roofing today to schedule an appointment for all of your fall maintenance needs!