Fall Preparedness Pro Tips from A-1Pro Disaster Restoration.
Preparing your home for fall is a great way to ensure comfort, safety, energy efficiency, as well as possible damage prevention as temperatures drop and the weather changes. A-1PRO will show you some key areas to focus on for fall preparedness:
PRO TIP 1. Service Your Furnace: Have a professional inspect and service your furnace to ensure it’s in good working order before cold weather hits.
Replace Filters: Clean or replace furnace filters to improve air quality and efficiency.
Thermostat Check: Test your thermostat and consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat to save on heating costs.
PRO TIP 2. Seal and Insulate
Inspect Windows and Doors: Check for drafts around windows and doors. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal gaps.
Check Insulation: Ensure that your attic and walls are properly insulated to retain heat.
Window Treatments: Install heavier curtains or thermal drapes to help keep the cold out.
PRO TIP 3. Gutters and Roof
Clean Gutters: Remove leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts to prevent blockages and water damage.
Inspect the Roof: Check for missing or damaged shingles and repair any issues to prevent leaks.
Install Gutter Guards: Consider adding gutter guards to prevent leaf buildup during the fall.
PRO TIP 4. Yard and Garden Prep
Trim Trees and Bushes: Trim back any dead or overhanging branches that could fall during storms.
Rake Leaves: Regularly rake leaves to prevent them from suffocating your lawn or clogging your gutters.
Lawn Care: Aerate your lawn and fertilize it with a fall-specific fertilizer to promote root growth during the colder months.
Winterize Sprinkler Systems: Drain and blow out sprinkler systems to prevent pipes from freezing and bursting.
PRO TIP 5. Chimney and Fireplace
Clean and Inspect Chimney: Hire a professional to clean and inspect your chimney, especially if you plan to use your fireplace regularly.
Stock Up on Firewood: If you have a wood-burning fireplace, stock up on firewood and store it in a dry place.
Install Chimney Cap: Consider installing a cap on your chimney to keep out rain, debris, and animals.
PRO TIP 6. Check Detectors and Safety Devices
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Replace the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and test them to ensure they’re working properly.
Fire Extinguisher: Check the expiration date on your fire extinguisher and ensure its easily accessible.
Emergency Kit: Prepare a home emergency kit with essentials like flashlights, batteries, blankets, and non-perishable food.
PRO TIP 7. Driveway and Walkways
Inspect and Repair Cracks: Check for cracks in your driveway or walkways and seal them to prevent water from freezing and expanding in the winter, which can cause further damage.
Stock up on De-icing Supplies: Have salt, sand, or other de-icing materials on hand to keep your walkways and driveways safe during frosty conditions.
PRO TIP 8. Test Exterior Lights
Check Outdoor Lighting: Test and replace any outdoor lighting, especially motion sensors or security lights, to ensure visibility and safety as the days get shorter.
PRO TIP 9. Inspect Sump Pump
Test Your Sump Pump: If your home has a basement, test your sump pump to ensure it’s working properly before heavy fall rains.
These A-1PRO TIPS can help your home stay comfortable, energy-efficient, and safe throughout the fall and into winter.