Late Summer Home Maintenance Tips
The official start of fall is not until September 22 this year, but for home owners, there is plenty to do before the leaves change color and the temperatures start to dip. Transitioning from season to season can be tough on homes, which is why it’s best to perform seasonal home maintenance so your home can handle the change in weather and prevent damage from occurring.
Protect your deck
Decks are known to receive a lot of weather damage, so it is important to take the time to protect your investment. Thoroughly clean your deck and inspect it for any damage while the weather is still pleasant. Make sure to check for any cracks and rotted wood that will need to be repaired before winter to prevent damage from getting worse. Don’t forget to check the ledger, as this is what connects your deck to your home and is the number one reason for deck collapse.
Repair your driveway
Address any driveway damage while the temps are still warm to prevent further damage. Seal and fill any cracks and holes to prevent them from filling with water and freezing this fall and winter. Taking the time to do this now will prolong the need to resurface your entire driveway, which is a much bigger (and more expensive) project.
Change your HVAC filters
With the switch in seasons, it is a good idea to replace your AC and furnace filters. Changing your filters protects and extends the life of your HVAC equipment and allows it to run more efficiently. Another reason to replace your HVAC filters is to keep energy costs down. In addition, changing the filters will improve the air quality in your home.
Clean windows and repair any gaps
Taking the time to clean your windows now provides the perfect opportunity to inspect for any gaps. Once your windows are clean, repair any gaps with caulk to prevent air from escaping and driving up the cost of your heating bills this fall and winter.
Clean gutters
If it’s been a while since you cleaned your gutters, it is wise to clean them now before the leaves start to fall and inevitably end up lodged in your gutters. By regularly cleaning your gutters, you will help to prevent leaking and unnecessary clogs.