Getting ready for back to school and seeing the college kids back in town, almost makes it feel like a brand new year! At least a brand new school year. So while you’re starting to think about warm cider, the smell of your winter blankets coming out of the cedar chest, there are things you can do NOW while it’s still warm to prepare for those cozy fall evenings.
One thing you’re not worried about right now, (because it’s 90 degrees!) is keeping your house warm, but the last thing you want to do when it starts getting chilly out is to find an air or water leak that means you’ll stay cold until it gets fixed. Check your windows for air leaks by running a lighter along the seams. If the flame flickers, you have a leak. Fixing it can save you tons on your energy bill.
When the weather starts to get colder, rainwater has a harder time evaporating which makes the water table rise and dampness a problem in basements and foundations. Make sure water has a clear path away from your house, meaning clean gutters, extended drain pipes, a lawn that slopes away from your foundation. Keep all greenery trimmed, leaving at least a foot between the plant and your home's siding. Leaks in your basement can be caused from inadequate drainage, poor ventilation, or groundwater seeping into a settling foundation.
Check for leaks in your attic shown by dark spots on support beams. If you’d like to check for a leak in your roof BEFORE the next heavy rain storm, here’s a guide showing how. However, if you don’t have home repair experience, don’t put yourself in danger and hire an insured professional.
Keeping up with the seasonal maintenance of your home is important in maintaining its value and function. Doing so means you’ll be able to relax on those cold nights and prevent bigger problems down the road!
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