September Home Maintenance
Date: September 7, 2023
As we enter September and the days begin to get shorter and cooler, remember to keep up with seasonal home improvements.
1. Check Roof, Gutters, And Downspouts.
September is a great time to examine your roof and look for potential issues. Do you have any missing, bent, loose, or broken shingles? Is the flashing around your chimney and vents in good condition? Even minor roofing issues can cause major damage to the entire home if not taken care of before cold weather sets in.
Be sure to clear gutters and downspouts of leaves, sticks, and other debris that can clog your home’s exterior drainage system and cause water damage. Check for loose, dented, detached, or broken downspouts. Make necessary repairs or replacements if needed.
2. Check Walkways and Driveways for Cracks.
As a part of your exterior home maintenance, a good sweep on walkways and driveways will give you a chance to notice any cracks. Gaps where water can seep in or grass and weeds can grow in should be cleaned out and sealed to prevent additional damage. Water freezing in cracks expands gaps and can create frost heaves and bulges that are both unsafe and reduce the curb appeal of your home. Small cracks can be tackled with a concrete epoxy repair and shouldn’t take more than a few hours. For serious cracks and substantial damages, call in a professional.
3. Get Your Heating System Prepared.
Now is the time to get your heating system checked, and possibly repaired, before the cold weather sets in. Calling in a licensed HVAC professional can help make sure everything is working efficiently. Besides normal service, an HVAC professional can test furnace burners, switches, thermostats, and safety controls, check heating vents and detect potentially costly leaks, and inspect your furnace.
Getting your fireplace and chimney professionally cleaned is a matter homeowners should not disregard. A chimney sweep can remove soot, heavy creosote buildup, and other debris that could cause fires. Regular maintenance of your chimney and fireplace will help to keep you and your family safe by preventing fire hazards in your home.