It may not feel like autumn, and some may argue that Texas doesn’t have the season; we jump from blazing hot to freezing cold. However, fall is officially upon us, and as important as we think it is to get that first pumpkin spice latte, we also believe in keeping a happy and healthy home.
To do so, we have compiled a checklist of the top five fall maintenance to-do’s that you should keep in mind to maintain your property and stop any seasonal disasters from arising.
Clean The Gutters & Inspect Your Roof
As the leaves begin to drop, you want to make sure you remove all that debris from your gutters so that rain and snow melt will flow properly to your downspout and off your home. And since you’re up there, check the flashing and seams of your roof. Are there any shingles that are damaged or small branches needing removal? Now is the time to prevent any potential problems that could arise during the winter months.
Check For Drafts Around Windows & Doors
Does your doors shut and seal properly? If there are cracks, you may need to apply weather stripping or have the door rehung. Also, check your windows to see if new caulking is needed around the boarders to ensure the wintry elements stay out. Even the smallest gaps can cause major damage to your home or wreak havoc on your utility bill.
Prep The Lawn For Winter Hibernation
It is important to remember that a great spring/summer yard starts in the fall. To be the envy of the neighborhood, follow this simple lawn care list.
- Cutting your grass shorter than usual (1.5 inches to 2inches) will help new grass sprout quicker and thicker.
- Fertilizing and reseeding three weeks to a month before the grass goes dormant will give a nutrient-rich boost come spring.
- Raking the leaves is obviously a no brainer and could be a fun chore for the kids.
- If you are feeling adventurous, aerate and allow your lawn to breathe.
Have A Heating & Cooling Tune-Up
Having your HVAC system looked at and replacing your air filters (which you should be doing every 1-3 months anyway) can help identify any problems and have the system working in tip-top shape. Also, cleaning your chimney once a year will stop the buildup of creosote in the flue, which can cause a fire. And since we are on the subject of fire, it never hurts to check the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
Winterize Pipes & Plumbing
Wrap and cover any exterior exposed pipes and faucets, and store hoses in a dry indoor location. Drain your hot water heater to remove any grit or sediment that can clog the pipes. This will improve the efficiency of the unit up to 50 percent. Lastly, if you have a sprinkler system, have a professional come and flush out the water lines.
