Fall Tips for Preparing Your Home

11/6/2018 (Permalink)

It is that time of year again! Although not every disaster is preventable, there are some things that can be foreseen. There are many preventative measures we can take to help protect our homes. Regularly cleaning the gutters and downspouts can prevent leaves from building up and blocking off pathways for rain water to travel. Another great option is to install gutter guards to prevent leaves from entering in to the gutters from the beginning. Either inspect your roof or have a professional do it for you. Replacing cracked or buckling shingles could potentially save you thousands of dollars in the long run. Be sure to check around chimneys, skylights, and pipes to ensure there are no gaps. If water gets in the gaps it could cause serious damage, so using a roof sealer would guarantee that your roof is water proof. Use a screw driver to check the trim around windows, doors, railings, and decks. Caulking any homes and replacing any weak wood is a great preventative measure. As the temperatures drop, it is important to prevent pipes from freezing. Be sure that all of the water is out of hoses and that the water valve has been shut off, to ensure that the pipes do not burst. If you live in a manufactured home, check that all skirting are secured properly and that your pipes have been covered in heat tape. If you know temperatures are going to be very low, leave the water running. A small, steady stream of water running out of your faucets will help keep your pipes from freezing. Disasters can strike at any time and happen to anyone. Small, preventative measures can be taken to lessen the probability of certain things happening to your home.