With Autumn's Arrival It's Time to
Prepare Your Home For Winter
Roof & Chimney
- Check gutters and downspouts. Clear blockages and repair leaks.
- Replace any missing, loose or damaged shingles.
- Make sure the chimney is sealed and there are no gaps in the pointing.
- Install a cap on the chimney to keep out animals and birds. Clean the chimney and check the firebox for creosote buildup.
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Attic
- Make sure the attic is properly insulated and ventilated to prevent creation of ice dams on the roof.
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Foundation
- Make sure water drains away from the house in a rainstorm.
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Exterior
- Look for cracked glass and broken seals on storm windows.
- Look for moisture or rotting at thresholds.
- Install weather stripping.
- Repair deteriorated finish or paint on siding. Caulk splitting seams in wood siding. If your exterior is brick or stone, replace any missing mortar in the joints.
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Around the House
- Trim trees away from house.
- Shut off and drain outdoor water faucets.
- Make sure storm drains are clear.
- Repair cracks in the driveway and sidewalk.
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Basement
- Insulate all pipes that are exposed to cold surfaces.
- Have the furnace serviced. Service all radiators and valves.
- Check the water heater for leaks and rust. Install carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. Lubricate all pumps, fans and motors. Test the sump pump.
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Inside the House
- Check and charge fire extinguishers and replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Clean humidifiers.
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