With the feel of fall in the air, it’s time to think about getting your home ready for colder weather. Much of the routine maintenance that needs to be done this time of year will not only help keep you cozy this winter, it will also save money on your heating bill and protect your biggest investment—your home.
While most of these routine maintenance tasks are fairly simple, make sure they get done before cold weather arrives to prevent damage to both your home and your bank account.
Seal Up Cracks and Gaps
If you added up all the small cracks, gaps, and holes around the outside of the average home, it would equal the area of an open window! To reduce the loss of heat, carefully inspect the perimeter of your home and caulk or weather strip where needed. Both caulking and weather stripping can reduce the flow of cold air in and warm air out – lowering your energy costs substantially.
- Around door and window frames
- Gaps around electrical outlets, phone lines, and outdoor faucets
- Around heating and/or cooling units
- The seal around room air conditioners
- At corners formed by siding
- Openings around drain pipes in bathrooms and kitchens
Applying Weather Stripping
Apply weather stripping around windows and doors to give a tight seal. Follow the instructions that come with the weather stripping for proper application.
Inspect Your Roof
Check your roof for signs of minor damage such as missing, broken, cracked, or curling shingles, as well as bare spots where the granular coating has worn off. Be sure to make repairs now to prevent more long-term damage.
Did you know that Butler Contracting can install solar shingles on your roof? Not only do solar shingles convert energy from the sun into power for your home, they also improve your home’s marketability and boost its curb appeal. Want to learn more about solar shingles? Visit https://butler.contractors/solar_sales_and_install-htm/
Clean and Repair Gutters
Dirty, clogged gutters can cause lots of problems during the winter months, including damage to your foundation and landscaping. To clean your gutters, simply remove all the debris so that water can drain properly. If you want to prevent additional debris from building up, consider having Butler Contracting install GutterBrush Leaf Guards.
Trim Back Trees and Bushes
Trimming your trees and hedges in the fall not only leaves you with less mess it also improves the appearance of your shrubbery and can prevent or correct a safety hazard. While power tools are terrific (and a must for many trees and bushes), most seasonal pruning and trimming can be taken care of with a few affordable hand tools.
Hand pruners, hedge trimmers, loping shears, and a pruning saw will take care of most small branches and limbs. First, look for and remove dead or diseased limbs, then cut back excessive growth and trim the bush into the desired shape.
For taller trees and thicker limbs, consider calling in a professional, especially if branches are dangerously close to power lines. You may also consider contacting your town or utility company, as major tree trimming may be their responsibility.
We are here to help you with all your winter home preparation needs. Give us a call to schedule a consultation: (844) 6BUTLER.
