Colder weather means more time spent indoors getting cozy. It’s time to check a few things off the list with these home repairs to tackle before the cold weather arrives.
Repair Roof Damage
Rain, ice, and snow don’t belong in your home. Any leaks in your roof can cause costly damage to the inside of your house, along with increased utility bills from keeping your home warm. While the weather is still comfortable, get outside and visually inspect your roof for any cracks or gaps, missing shingles, or visible signs of damage. Don’t forget about the inside as well. Check the attic for any signs of water damage along the ceiling or cracked plaster.
While you’re up in the attic, check the insulation. Insulation protects your home from cold temperatures and keeps the warmth inside. You may need to get it replaced. There are different types of insulation, so figure out which is the best fit for your home.
Clean and Inspect Gutters
While you’re up on the roof checking for damages, inspect the gutters and downspouts. Clear away any debris hiding in them and ensure that everything is attached and properly draining. If a gutter isn’t draining correctly and the temperatures reach below freezing, they will become weighed down and break away from their supports.
You may want to consider gutter guards. These guards will stop branches, leaves, and other debris from piling up and disrupting the flow.
Painting Interior Rooms
While you can paint the inside of your home any time of year, it’s best when you’re able to have a properly ventilated home. You can best achieve this ventilation with open doors and windows. Colder weather makes it difficult. Fall is a great time to tackle painting because you can take advantage of the weather and still have natural lighting.
Check the HVAC System
Fall is the perfect time to have the HVAC system professionally inspected. Take time to check if your home’s heating system is working before you have to use it for the first time. Then, if there are any issues, you can schedule an appointment and get any problems fixed.
You can walk around the house to ensure all the vents are clean and swap out your furnace filter. It’s also the perfect opportunity to check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and change batteries if needed.
Tip
Consider changing out your thermostat for a smart one if you haven’t already. These devices will help save you money and are a quick and easy eco-friendly update for your home.
Inspect the Deck and Patio
Another home repair to tackle before the cold weather arrives is sweeping off your deck or patio to remove loose branches, leaves, or other debris that may sit there. Check around for any cracks or splits in the wood or railing of the deck. If something appears broken, fix it up, and think about resealing the deck too. The colder temperatures will dry out the wood and can potentially lead to more damage. Keep an eye out for any signs of water damage and mold as well. This harm will get worse over the colder months.
