Sometimes being a homeowner is like being a chess player: You’ve got to think a few moves ahead. That means that—even before summer starts drifting away—we need to ask ourselves, “How can we best get our home ready for fall and winter?” By taking the following 5 key steps soon, you’ll feel safe, secure, and confident long before the Halloween goblins show up at your door and Old Man Winter reels his blustery head.
Check Your Heating System
Whether you heat your home with a conventional furnace, a chip-burning stove, or in some other manner, it’s crucial to ensure your heating system is in solid working order. If you’re proficient at this, you may be able to do it yourself. But most Maine homeowners gain much-needed peace of mind—and likely long-term cost savings—by contacting an accredited HVAC professional.
Weather-Strip Windows & Doors
The federal government estimates that heat gain and loss through windows is responsible for an astonishing 25 to 30 percent of heating and cooling costs. If you don’t tackle this problem soon, you could be stuck with a double-whammy no homeowner wants: a less-than-optimally warm house and a less-than-optimally robust bank account. So don’t delay—be sure to weather-strip those leaky doors and windows as soon as you can.
Clean Out Drains & Gutters
Ice backups can cause serious leaks in your roof at exactly the worst time of year. That’s why it is imperative to unblock drains and gutters before winter arrives. Be sure to remove leaves, dirt, and twigs from drains, gutters, and your roof. Then, after you’re done, pour water through your downspouts to make sure you have good water flow-through.
Offer Your Lawn Some TLC
During the late autumn, give your lawn the focused attention it requires. Be sure to regularly mow it, right up to the time when it cannot grow anymore. Rake leaves and grass clippings, to provide the grass with maximum exposure to the sun. Finally, be sure to mulch around flowers and plants, to protect them against the worst winter exposure.
Protect Pipes from Freezing
Freezing pipes can mean the worst winter headaches you’ve ever had—plus a serious hit to your wallet. Step up with your “ounce of prevention” by making sure your water lines are carefully protected with insulation specifically designed for plumbing. Also, disconnect all outdoor hoses, and completely close all outdoor faucets.
Winter in Maine can be a wonderful time for your entire family. But to enjoy it fully, it’s critical to get your house ready for fall and winter well in advance. If you have questions or need friendly, professional real estate advice in the Augusta, Maine area, we invite you to contact us today.
