5 Tips to Prepare Your Home for the Fall
Though we still have a few weeks of the warmer weather left to enjoy, we know the fall is just around the corner. Before it officially arrives, it’s an ideal time to start getting your home prepared for the oncoming seasons. To help your home withstand the frosty bite, here are some tips to prepare your home for the fall before the crisp, cooler temperatures set in. If you don’t want to sacrifice a weekend for home maintenance, hire a professional to take care of it for you instead.
Perform Eavestrough/Gutter Cleaning
When it comes to any home, the number one culprit that causes the most amount of damage is water. During the autumn as the trees shed their leaves, they will inevitably end up in your eavestrough. Combined with moisture and muck, this can create blockages throughout the eavestrough and downspouts that can prevent water from draining properly. This can quickly lead to serious water damage for your roof as well as the home’s foundation. Gutters that are filled with gunk are also a magnet for critters who are looking for somewhere to nest. As the weather continues to drop, these critters can make their way inside through the attic, causing more damage to your roof and home. If you’re not keen on getting up on a ladder to clean them out on your own, call in a professional to do it for you. It’s one home maintenance task that should never be neglected, especially prior to the winter.
Chimney Cleaning and Inspection
Before you light up the fireplace to keep your home warm and cozy, it’s important to make sure it’s safe and ready to use. It should be cleaned and inspected annually, especially if it’s a wood burning fireplace. Without cleaning once per year, creosote can accumulate within the chimney, which is a sticky residue from smoke that is very flammable. Make your chimney a priority every fall by having a professional come to provide a chimney cleaning service and inspection to give you peace of mind before lighting it up for the winter.
Install A Fireplace
If you’ve been putting off that fireplace installation, now’s the time to get it done! Here in Canada, we know how quickly the weather can change – it can feel like a balmy fall day and the next, there could be snow in the forecast. A fireplace not only helps keep you warm and comfortable during the colder months, but it can also give you an extra source of heat that you can rely on if the electricity ever goes out. Plus, it creates an undeniable coziness at home that makes it easier to get through several months when you’re cooped up at home. Today there are many different options you can choose from, including modern, eco-friendly designs with efficient heating.
Roof Inspection
The average asphalt shingled roof can last between 15 and 20 years. But despite the age of yours, an annual roof inspection is something that should never be ignored. Catching any problems with your roof now can save you a great amount of time, aggravation and money. If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, it’s even more imperative to have it professionally inspected for any potential signs of damage. While you’re up cleaning out the gutters, it’s a good time to check for any loose pieces or granules from the shingles. If you notice some, this can indicate some heavy wear and tear that should be looked at by a professional roofing company.
Repair Walkways
Walkways can become treacherous during the colder months. As soon as the temperatures drop and the snow and ice arrive, any loose interlock stones or broken stairs can become serious tripping hazards. Repair and replace any damaged areas along the walkways and steps to ensure they are safe for you and your family during the fall and winter.
Whether you need your gutters cleaned, roof inspected, your fireplace cleaned or a new one installed, reach out to us at Top Hat Home Comfort Services. We’ve been the trusted source for professional home repairs, improvements and maintenance since 1974. Whatever you need, we can help. Contact us today to get your home prepped and ready for the fall!
