Prepare & Protect Surfaces:
1. Prepare the Exterior Surfaces of Your Home: Have your house power washed to remove any mold, mildew or stains from summer or previous years. Also consider a fresh coat of exterior paint or stain and sealant (if applicable), to prevent future damage.
2. Seal the Deck: Clean and apply a sealant to protect your deck from winter weather that can lead to decay.
3. Store or Cover Outdoor Furniture: Protect your furniture from the elements.
Complete or Schedule Inspections:
4. Inspect and Repair Roof: Check for loose or damaged shingles and repair as needed.
5. Inspect and Clean Fireplace: Ensure it’s safe to use and remove any creosote buildup.
6. Inspect Insulation: Check the attic and wall insulation to keep your home warm and help keep energy costs down.
Improve Energy Efficiency:
7. Seal Windows and Doors: Check weatherstripping and caulking and replace if necessary to prevent drafts that sap your home’s energy.
8. Prepare Heating Systems: Have your furnace, boiler, and chimney inspected and cleaned. You don’t want to wait until the middle of an “Arctic Blast” to find out your heater needs repairs!
9. Drain and Shut Off Outdoor Faucets: Protect them from freezing temperatures. Left on, they can lead to bursting pipes inside your home.
Complete Yard Maintenance & Emergency Preparedness:
10. Rake Leaves and Mulch: Keep your lawn and garden beds tidy and prepare for winter. This also helps prevent mold and mildew from growing on your home’s foundation and decking or porches.
11. Trim Trees and Shrubs: Remove dead branches and shape plants to prevent home damage from snow and ice and during high winds.
12. Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Remove leaves and debris to prevent clogs and ice dams. You can also consider Gutter-Guards to prevent future clogs.
13. Check Detectors: Ensure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working and batteries are fresh.
14. Prepare Emergency Kit: Stock up on essentials like flashlights, batteries, bottled water, and first-aid supplies.
If you need help preparing your home for colder months ahead and you live in the following areas: Ardmore, Berwyn, Bryn Mawr, Chester Springs, Devon, Downingtown, Gladwyne, Glenmoore, Haverford, Malvern, Merion Station, Narberth, Newtown Square, Paoli, Penn Valley, Phoenixville, Radnor, Rosemont, St. Davids, Strafford, Valley Forge, Villanova, Wayne, West Chester, and Wynnewood, PA, please give us a call to discuss your needs!