Monday, January 21, 2013

Preventative Home Maintenance

The following ideas should be put on a permanent list that must be done on a regular basis to keep your home ready for the winds, rain, and cold weather. For instance, you don’t want to try to repair damaged roofs when it’s raining, so be prepared.

Gutters & Downspouts – They need to be cleaned out frequently to prevent the buildup of leaves or debris. Make sure the support brackets are secure and the water drains properly and doesn’t pool up. Pooling can damage driveways and walkways and cause leaks within your home when they don’t drain properly.

Landscape & Yard work – Grass dries up, but the roots grow deeper in preparation for winter. Before winter is the best time to fertilize and reseed your lawn. Trim trees and shrubs after the leaves turn to encourage healthy growth. Also trim tree limbs that are close to power lines or the roof of your house.

Windows & Doors – Change summer screens to cool weather storm windows and doors, inspect and repair any loose or damaged window or doorframes. Install weather stripping or caulking around windows and doors to prevent drafts and to keep your heating bills down.

Heating Systems – Replace filters in your furnace. Have a heating professional check your heating system to insure proper heating and discover minor problems.

Plumbing – Insure that the pips are well insulated to prevent freezing or bursting

Chimney & Fireplace – Have a professional inspect and clean your chimney, and they should be cleaned annually. Make sure the flue has a tight seal when closed.

Attic Ventilation – Be sure attic insulation doesn’t cover vents in the eaves to prevent winter ice dams, and that they are clear of plants and debris. Check screens on attic vents to prevent birds or rodents from entering.

It’s a good idea to check all of the areas above before winter sets in, and some need to be checked more frequently. Your home should be insulated and every window and door checked regularly for drafts in order to keep your home in top condition and save on utility bills.

If this proves too challenging for you, you might consider hiring a cleaning service to check all of the areas mentioned, and possibly a few more that he may find. It’s the best way to stay ahead of the cleaning chores and make the necessary repairs before the winter storms hit your area.

Home Improvement Guide specializes in Southern California home improvement, Costa Mesa home improvement and Orange County ca contractors.

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