09/23/2026
It's Fall and Time to Prepare Your Home for Winter
Fall maintenance is important because it helps make homes more energy efficient during the winter months, and will safeguard homes against potential seasonal 'disasters' such as leaking roofs or home fires caused by neglected chimneys... Here are eight tips to a safer, warmer winter.
TIP #1 – Test fire alarms, smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.
TIP #2 - Have the chimney inspected by a qualified chimney professional. Chimneys should be checked and cleaned, if necessary, on an annual basis. If you have a chimney that will not be used, consider having it sealed shut.
TIP #3 - Remove excess leaves and damaged branches from trees surrounding the house. Dead branches have the potential to break and fall, ruining roofs, decks, or vehicles and the possibly causing injuries to people.
TIP #4 - Maintain gutters. Remove all debris that can slow or impede the ability of water to drain effectively from the roof. Trapped water can be destructive not only to the gutters themselves but to the adjoining roof as well. Make sure gutter water drains away from your home.
TIP #5 - Inspect the roof. Look for damaged or loose shingles, gaps in the flashing at joints with siding, vents and flues, as well as damaged mortar around the chimney.
TIP #6 - Inspect the attic and basement or crawlspace. Insulate voids in the attic - the entire attic floor above a living space should be insulated with at least six inches of insulation, except around electrical fixtures such as recessed lights that aren't rated for contact with insulation. Damp basements and crawl spaces can become mold and mildew problems.
TIP #7 - Shut down sprinkler systems and outside faucets and insulate exposed pipes.
I hope this information helps you to maintain your home and stay safe and warm this winter.
If you or anyone you know is in the market to sell or purchase a home, please contact me!
Warm Wishes,
Eve
