Every season brings with it another installment of maintenance task you should perform if you want to avoid costly repairs (and migraines) in your home ownership stint. Here's my favorites for a chilly winter.
- Gutters and downspouts should be cleaned again as in the spring. Trim any branches or shrubs that scrape against the house to avoid damage from storm high winds and keep squirrels out of your attic.
- Turn off outside water supply and store your hoses. If your sprinkler system is below ground and your in a frosty climate, have a pro blow out the water lines.
- Check for drafts around older windows and (clear) caulk as necessary. Make a plan to replace older windows for the spring. Even if you're on a budget, you can handle one replacement at a time, and this will make such a difference in how your home retains heat.
- Check your dryer vents and hoses for lint buildup that can cause a fire. You can find a good DIY kit for under $50 at a good hardware store.
I tried to go easy on you as, after all, it is the holiday season! Get these items taken care of, then you can enjoy entertaining without nagging doubts of what you "should take care of on the house."
© 2007, "Antoinette" Scognamiglio, Prudential New Jersey Properties (Denville Office)
"Antoinette" Scognamiglio specializes in the northern New Jersey real estate markets of Northern Bergen County, Morris and Sussex Counties, in addition to several townships in Passaic County. Certified by Prudential New Jersey Properties as a relocation specialist, I take exceptional care in assisting my clients in finding their new home and community. Please visit http://www.antoinetteshomes.com/ to learn more about my philosophy in conducting real estate business, and also to access the resources I offer to the public at large. My credo is..."The title of REALTOR® should be held with great care or not held at all." Put your real estate transaction in careful hands. Contact me directly on my cell at 201-240-8699 or my Denville office at 973-625-1250, ext. 105.
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