From one of our favorite inspectors in the Charlotte metro area, Eric Dorman with Pillar to Post, comes the following 6 top tips on how to get your home ready for the late fall and winter seasons. Early fall is the perfect time to get yourhome in shape while the weather is still pleasant for spending time outdoors.
Eric Dorman's and Pillar To Post's 6 Fall Home Maintenance Tips To Get Your Home Ready For Winter:
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Seal it up: Caulk and seal around exterior door and window frames. Look for gaps where pipes
or wiring enter the home and caulk those as well. Not only does heat escape from these
openings, but water can enter and may eventually cause structural damage and mold problems.
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Look up: Check the roof for missing or damaged shingles. Winter weather can cause serious
damage to a vulnerable roof, leading to a greater chance of further damage inside the home.
Although you should always have a qualified professional inspect and repair the roof, you can
do a preliminary survey from the ground using binoculars.
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Clear it out: Clear gutters and eaves troughs of leaves, sticks, and other debris. Consider
installing leaf guards if your gutters can accommodate them – they are real time savers and can
prevent damage from clogged gutters. Check the joints between sections of gutter, as well as
between the gutter and downspouts, and make any necessary adjustments or repairs.
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No hoses: In climates with freezing weather, drain garden hoses and store them indoors to
protect them from the elements. Shut off outdoor faucets and make sure exterior pipes are
drained of water. Faucets and pipes can easily freeze and burst, causing leaks and potentially
serious water damage.
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Warm-up time: Have the furnace inspected to ensure it’s safe and in good working order. Most
utility companies will provide no-cost inspections, but there can often be a long waiting list come
fall and winter. Replace disposable furnace air filters or clean the permanent type according to
the manufacturer’s instructions. Using a clean filter will help the furnace run more efficiently,
saving you money and energy.
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Light that fire: If you enjoy the crackle of a wood-burning fireplace on a chilly fall or winter evening, have the firebox and chimney professionally cleaned before using it this season. Creosote, a by-product of wood burning, can build up to dangerous levels and cause a serious chimney fire if
not removed.
These fall home maintenance tips are brought to you courtesy of Nina Hollander and Carolinas Realty Partners, RE/MAX Executive, your Charlotte metro area real estate consultants.
If you are considering purchasing or selling a home in the Charlotte metro area, I would love an opportunity to earn your business, exceed your expectations, and to prove to you that "The Right Broker Makes All The Difference."
Enjoy!!
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