2 minute read
Fall is in the Air
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By Linda H Kralik, BHHS Drysdale Properties Blackhawk Resident since 1984
Yes, it seems like summer just began, but Fall is in the air. The days are shorter, the evenings are cooler and breezier, the kids are definitely back in school and even some of the trees are showing signs of fall colors. Not in full bloom, but you can feel it. So, what can you do? Well, there is plenty to do in preparing your home for the onslaught of winter and here are a few tips you can follow.
1. HVAC System
This system runs your furnace and air conditioning systems for your home. You have used the air conditioning throughout the summer, but now you need to make sure the heating system is serviced for keeping the hearth and home warm. If you do not have a regularly scheduled service (every 6 months is optimum), contact a reputable firm and have them come out and do a system check on your furnace. This might also be a great time to have your ducting cleaned in preparation for winter.
2. Eaves, Gutters and Valleys
Contact a roofing company, maybe the one who installed the roof, and ask them to do a roof evaluation checking for worn tiles or older shakes that might cause a leak during a storm. Have them clear all of the valleys and roof hips of debris collected during the summer and also do a cleanout of the rain gutters and downspouts. Fall leaves will add additional burdens to your system unless older debris is cleared away.
3. Windows and Doors
Take a look around the house, inspecting all exterior doors and windows for broken air seals where heat might escape and cool air intrude. Caulk the windows, as needed, to provide an airtight seal and add additional weather-stripping to doors to ensure adequate closure.
4. Chimney and Fireplaces
Contact a reputable Chimney Sweep and have them come and do a full chimney clean-out, checking for any cracks or leaks in the chimney flue or masonry box. Even if you only have a gas fireplace you still need to keep the flue cleaned and free of leaks. Also ensure the gas lighter is working properly.
Those are my tips for preparing your home for the Fall and Winter. If you cannot find reputable contractors for the areas of concern that I have suggested, I am happy to give you a list of those vendors that I use for my business, my clients and my own home. They have been around for a long time and are tried and true to their work. They may not be the least expensive, but their work speaks for itself. Good Luck and Happy September. LK
