Winter Is
Approaching … Is your Home Ready?
By
Dirk van Reenen: Amarillo Realtor
Autumn winds blow a chilly
reminder that winter is fast approaching. Perform the following maintenance
tips each fall to protect your property's value and prevent major repairs.
Roof, Gutters and Downspouts
Rain, ice, snow and wind can all
cause damage to your roof and gutters. Now’s the time to trim back all tree
limbs and vegetation away from the roof. You also should remove debris, such as
leaves and sticks from your gutters and downspouts. Clogged gutters don’t allow
water to properly drain away from the home, which can cause seepage in your
ceilings and walls. You can also invest in gutter guards, a screen that
prevents debris from entering the gutter and directs the flow of water away
from the house and into the ground.
Water Heater
You don’t want to find out that
your water heater isn’t operating properly when you need it most. So use this
time to perform an annual inspection, which includes having your tank’s
pressure and temperature relief valve checked. In addition, remove sediment
from the bottom of the tank by draining two gallons of water to improve heat
transfer and the efficiency of your heater.
Heating and Cooling System
If you have a forced warm-air
heating system, you should check the exhaust vent and air shutter openings for
dirt and dust. Clean any lint and dirt from the blower blades, motor and burner
(if you have a gas heater). Vacuum air passages and check and replace, if
necessary, fan belts. To prevent airborne dirt from circulating throughout your
home, wash out your reusable filter or replace it if it’s disposable.
Doors and Windows
To help control heating costs,
make sure your doors and windows are properly sealed. Now is the time to repair
or replace weather stripping around door bottoms and jambs and window frames.
Check for loose or missing glazing putty and caulking for deterioration. If you
have storm windows, install them.
Water Pipes
Frozen or burst pipes can cause
major damage to your home and be expensive to remedy. Before frigid weather
hits, protect your pipes in unheated areas from freezing by adding insulation,
which reduces heat loss from hot-water pipes and condensation on cold water
pipes. This can be accomplished by wrapping the pipes with heating tape or
blanket insulation and duct tape or by encasing the pipes with preformed
plastic foam. In addition, examine your pipes for cracks and leaks.
Fireplace
Before you light the logs and get
ready to settle in front of a cozy fire, make sure that your fireplace is in
good working order. Clean the chimney flue and, if needed, have it inspected
and repaired. Check the seal on your flue, which is designed to keep out
drafts. Replace the seal if it is loose or damaged.
If you decide to perform the fall
maintenance yourself, disconnect the power for any electrical or gas systems. In
addition, before inspecting, cleaning or making any repairs refer to your owner’s
manual for all equipment for proper instructions, which should be the final
authority on any maintenance.
Outdoor Surfaces and Landscaping
Fall is also a great time to seal
your driveways, wood patios and other hardscape surfaces. In addition, prune
tree branches away from your home and electrical wires. Plant spring flower
bulbs and move sensitive potted plants indoors.
Although this list is merely a
guide, it can help you keep your home in good shape and have a winter free of
major repairs. Be blessed people!
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