Fall is here! Is your home winter ready yet?
In advance of this years hopeful projection of an infamous, "El Nino," to the west coast, it's important to be prepared. It's better to be safe than sorry. It's time to get your home ready for winter. Here are some helpful reminders:
Flood Insurance - If flood insurance is not required in your area but you are in an area that is prone to localized stream flooding, it may be something to consider. I know in my neighborhood there are a few areas that flood every couple years or so. It is important to know that when you do not have flood insurance you are not covered from ANY water that comes INTO your home!
Clean Gutters - We have all had the waterfalls flowing overhead from our gutters during heavy rain! It is important that you get up there and clean out all the leaves, twigs, dirt etc. out of the gutters. You should check the brackets and hangers on the gutters and downspout and make sure they are secure. You may also want to be sure that water is flowing AWAY from the home. This may mean that you out extenders on the bottom of the downspouts to direct the water away from the foundation of your home.
Heat Source Inspections - No matter what the source of heat is, it's time for an inspection. If you have a chimney its a great time to have that cleaned and inspected. Especially if you have recently purchased a home and have not had an inspection. If you have a heater, call a local HVAC company to conduct a complete inspection and tune up. You don't want to wait until its cold to find out that you have a heat problem!
Air Leaks - When you have air coming into your home your heating and cooling costs are higher. Some places to check to be sure your home is air tight: attic entrances, window frames, door frames, air ducts, outlets, recessed lighting, chimney flashing, and plumbing and utility accesses.
Roof Inspections - There are companies that complete low cost or free roof inspections. Oftentimes your roof will also be eligible for a roof certification. This means that as long as required repairs are made, if any, your roof will be guaranteed against leaks for an extended period time. If you live in the greater Sacramento area I can get you a FREE roof inspection, just give me a call.
We need the rain desperatly in California - I pray we get enough to fill our lakes and reservoirs once again.
Happy Fall!
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