We're well into the Fall season; but it’s not too late to prep your home for the this time of year. The crisp, cool air, countless beautiful shades of colors, and plenty of enjoyable evenings around the bonfire await us. Yet, amidst all these great things, there are certain preparations that will take your home safely through the Fall season and into winter. 

     As a homeowner, it’s important to take certain steps to protect your home and your wallet. Here are five key areas worth reviewing for your home's protection.

1.  Furnace maintenance

     Start with heating or furnace maintenance: Schedule an appointment to have your furnaced serviced. Many companies provide a service contract payable on a yearly basis. This is a great way to prevent surprises during the cold months ahead and if there is a problem make sure your heating contractor has a 24 hour service.  A service contract is also a great way to prolong the life and efficiency of your furnace which in turn keeps your bills down. While trying to juggle work obligations, kids, school, chores, and much more, this is one of those areas that can easily be overlooked.

     Just a couple hundred dollars now is much more reasonable than a few thousand later. Keep your furnace in good working condition and make sure you’re prepared for the colder temperatures. (Need some recommendations for good heating and cooling companies contact (The Mark Foss Brown Team)

2.  Roof inspection and cleaning.

     Clean off your roof: As the leaves begin to fall, it’s important that you protect your roof from unnecessary moisture. Take the time to clean off any debris that builds up before the winter months and ensure that your roof is patched from any basic wear and tear.  This will be especially vital when winter snow begins to accumulate. A roof cleaning should also include clearing  out your gutters and scanning the area around your chimney as well. 

3.   Prepare Your Pipes.

      First of all, don’t forget to unscrew any hoses or nozzles attached to the outside faucets. For those who are using underground sprinklers, have your system winterized by a professional. This pushes out any remaining water from the summer to avoiding bursting lines. If you have a septic system it may be beneficial to have it inspected as well, especially if it has been several years since you have done so. 

4.   Basic Crack Repair & Landscape.

      For those who have minor sidewalk or concrete damage, this is a good time of year to fill those areas with something like Quikrete to avoid further damage. This helps keep water and moisture out, especially once snow hits. Also, make sure to clear out the areas around your house where leaves have fallen, and cut back any other trees or shrubbery.

5.    Check insulation & energy efficiency. 

       Lots of money is sucked away due to insulation break down and unmonitored temperature . For those who are rarely at home and constantly on the run, you may want to consider investing in a programmable thermostat. This saves big bucks over time by cutting back on unnecessary energy costs - especially with the rise in most utilities costs.

       Another big insulation spender is the areas around your windows, doors or elsewhere that may be allowing draughts to enter your home. Consider either having these places sealed or maybe investing in some new materials. Depending on how long you plan to live at your current residence, the cost could certainly be justified. There is a little known energy efficiency test that evaluates your home's energy efficiency. Its called a "Blower Door Test" and it is very affordable. You could also purchase a flame stick to test for air leaks. (contact us for more information)

For contractors and vendors we trust and recommend contact The Mark Foss Brown Team (804) 359-7653 or click on the contact us icon.