Now that the sun is starting to set earlier in the day and a few colors can be seen in the tree leaves, it’s time to start thinking about getting your home ready for the change in seasons. Notice we didn’t use the dreaded word beginning with a, “W”?
To help you get started, we’ve prepared a checklist that should be included in your autumn cleaning process. Taking the time to prep and clean now means you’ll have time for a double feature by the fire later. Let’s get started!
Doors and Windows
- Inspect your door’s weather-stripping and sills. Do your doors close tightly? Is the weather-strip torn or missing? Weather-stripping and sills help to seal small gaps, keeping moisture and cold air outside and warm air inside. If either needs replacements, check with your local lumber dealer for the new, easy to install options and seal up your entryways.
- Check caulk around windows and doors. Proper caulking helps prevent leaks and keep energy costs down; over time caulk will chip, crack, and gap so be sure to inspect doors and windows at least once per year. Re-caulking as needed will not only protect your energy bill but also the longevity of your doors and windows
- Wash exterior windows and door glass. Using a household glass cleaner (be sure not to spray this on finished doors as it may mar the finish), or one squirt of dish-washing liquid in a spray bottle filled with water, spray and wipe down windows with a microfiber cloth. It is best to perform this task on a cloudy day when it is easier to see spots and streaks.
- Check the paint and finish. This is very important if you have a wood door, deck, or railing, as wood needs to be refinished and cared for each year in order to keep its appearance and durability. No matter what type of door you have, look it over – does the paint or stain need to be touched up? Do there appear to be any leaks or gaps?
- In the event that the door is scratched after finishing, Bayer Built carries touch up pens for all of our Pre-Finish color options to fix any cosmetic imperfections on your door.
- Don’t forget to add a new top coat to your door to ensure longevity and beauty.
Roof, Siding and Gutters
- Check the gutters. Leaves and debris also build up in your gutters preventing them from working properly. Left clogged throughout the winter ice dams will form and can cause serious damage to your roof. Do a visual check to make sure your gutters are clean and clear and consider installing mesh lead shields for further protection.
- After cleaning out the gutters, use a hose to pour water in them to see where the water flows. Make sure the water does not end up near your foundation, creating leaks or in walkways which could freeze and create a slippery patch.
- Inspect your roof. Get on top of roof problems. You’ll want to be sure to check your roof for damaged or curled shingles, corroded flashing or leaky vents.
Others…
- Check (or install) carbon monoxide detectors. During winter heating months it is especially important to ensure that your carbon monoxide detectors are working properly.
- Check your fire alarms. This should be done every 6 months which makes spring and fall the perfect times to test all of your alarms.
- Replace filters. You should check, clean or replace your air filter, dryer vent, air conditioner, stove hood and room fans to ensure appliances are running properly and to keep energy costs down.
- Winterize your air conditioner. As the temperature drops you’ll want to clean and winterize your air conditioner so that it will be ready to run next summer.