Tom's Blog
It is hard to believe fall is upon us already, but soon the leaves and the temperatures outside will be falling and NOW is the time to take measures to inspect your home for any issues that may cause damage during the next few months. Taking extra precautions doesn’t prevent bad situations from happening, but can surely help to minimize them when they do. Learn tips on fall maintenance for homeowners, so you can just enjoy the upcoming changing season.
Below Are Some of the Main Areas to Check Off Your Fall Maintenance List, but Not Limited to:
- Inspect Your Roof – When inspecting the roof, look for missing or damaged shingles, decomposed flashing, and/or leaky vents. If you notice any of the above, make sure you have it repaired before heavy rains, ice or snow fall to prevent leaking/seepage.
- Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts- Before the leaves start to fall, inspect your gutters and downspouts to make sure all are clean and clear. If you don’t perform this task before additional leaves and debris get in, it can cause water build up under your shingles, causing the roofing materials to deteriorate.
- Have a Routine Furnace Inspection- This inspection should be done now, before the temps start to fall. A routine inspection can prevent a possible future breakdown in your furnace when you desperately need heat. Your filter should also be replaced upon inspection.
- Close off Any Gaps/Cracks Around Doors and Windows- Now is a good time to inspect all doors and windows to see if new caulking or weather stripping needs to be applied. Having excess air come in can cause a spike in your heating bill.
- Check Your Fireplace Before Using- Before burning the first fire of the year, always inspect for debris and then have a professional do a chimney sweep to ensure safety for you and your family.
- Ensure Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors Are Working Properly- A good rule of thumb is to set aside a date every year to change the batteries in all of them. January 1 may be a good time to remember to ensure they are always in good working order. Also, at the same time, review a “fire escape plan” with your family so that if something happens, everyone knows the safe evacuation plan.
- Inspect Walkways- Before snow and ice falls, inspect your walkways and stairs for any damage(s) that could cause potential accidents to neighbors or your family if covered with snow and ice.
- Inspect Clothes Dryer- Lint is one of the most common causes of house fires due to the heat buildup if not routinely cleaned. You can disconnect your clothes dryer vent and vacuum any collective lent.
Fall is Right Around the Corner
Doing some routine fall maintenance can help you, as a homeowner, minimize the risks of something worse happening down the road. Remember, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” As your local N.C. independent insurance agent, I want you, your family and home to remain safe and trouble free this fall.
