Spring is for spring cleaning, but did you know that fall is the perfect time to tackle outdoor home improvement projects? The weather is not too hot or cold, the scenery is gorgeous, and you can ensure your home is in tip-top shape before harsh winter weather hits. Start working through this fall checklist and you’ll be done before you know it!
Prepare the Deck and Patio
Preparing your deck and patio for winter helps to extend the life of the space itself, as well as anything you have on the space. Start by cleaning your outdoor furniture and putting it up in the garage or storage shed. Then, remove any patio décor and planters that are ceramic or glass. Either move these items inside or empty them out, cover, and store them with the furniture. Leaving those fragile items out as the temperatures continue to drop will lead to cracks. Once the patio or deck is empty, look for any signs of damage. Contact a contractor ASAP to make repairs before winter.
Clean the Chimney
Schedule a chimney cleaning appointment each fall. Soot and other debris get stuck inside the chimney. Over time, this becomes a serious fire hazard. Keeping the chimney clean is the easiest way to ensure you can enjoy a warm fire without putting your family’s health at risk. Chimney cleaning requires special tools and knowledge, so you can’t turn it into a DIY job.
Roof Inspection
Your roof should be inspected at least once each year. Fall is the perfect time to get the inspection done so you won’t have to worry about water leaks or missing shingles when snow starts to fall. Hire a roofing contractor to inspect your roof to save yourself some time and stress. Attempting to inspect the roof yourself requires a ladder, knowledge of how to safely walk on the roof, and the ability to identify damages on the roof.
Gutter Cleaning
Clogged gutters mixed with winter weather is a recipe for disaster. Your gutters need to be cleaned at least twice per year. To clean the gutters, use a ladder and heavy-duty gloves to remove any visible debris. Once you’re finished, flush the gutter with the hose to check for good water flow. If the water is still backed up, there’s probably a clog in the downspout system. You can also just save yourself the trouble and schedule professional gutter cleaning at the same time as your roof inspection!
Contact Salemi Exteriors today to schedule a consultation with an experienced contractor in your area! We can walk you through proper fall home maintenance to start forming good habits and get your home back on track for a long life.
