Preparing Your Home for Cooler Weather

Congratulations! You've closed on your house, and the big move is finally over. It's time to make your new house a home! One of the advantages of homeownership is that you don't have to ask for permission to make any updates you'd like (unless permits are required). You can paint, pick out your own kitchen, remodel bathrooms, new flooring, etc. And although updating and remodeling is fun, don't forget about the little things that keep your home in good condition, protects your assets and equity, and helps make your home easier to sell later when it's time to move. I'm speaking of property maintenance. 

Here in Baltimore, Maryland, we have 4 seasons. Hot summers, cool falls, cold winters, and rainy springs. Maintaining our home is imperative, and staying on top of maintenance each season will save homeowners a lot of money in the future by preventing larger issues from forming.

Here is a list of Fall Maintenance leading into the Winter:
Exterior:

• Foundation - Do a quick walkaround your foundation and look for cracks, signs of peeling paint, and entry points for wires and pipes. Caulk and Seal as necessary.
• Windows and Doors - Seal and caulk any gaps around your windows and doorframes. Add weather stripping as necessary
• Garage - Check the weather stripping on the garage door and replace as necessary, as animals love to make a garage their home in the winter.
• Roof and Gutters - Make sure to keep your gutters free of leaves, and notice if there are any granules from your roof. Check for missing or broken shingles, and look for damage to your flashing.
• Hose Bibbs - Turn off the water to your exterior hose valves, and open them, letting them drain. Remove hoses, and drain them too. 

Interior:

• Windows and Doors - We checked the exterior, and we also need to check the interior, caulk and seal any gaps that will allow cold air in during cold months. 
• Heating and Air - Have your heating units checked by a licensed technician. Emergency home calls during the winter are very expensive. HVAC systems last a whole lot longer when serviced regularly.
• Smoke and Carbon monoxide detectors - Test each one and make sure they are functioning, especially if you have a fire place!
• Clean the carpets - With the humidity behind us, now is the best time to clean your carpets. Open the windows for ventilation! 

Do you have any other tips for Fall Maintenance?

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