Written By Travis Hecht
Broker/Partner
Fall Home Preparation for Winter: Don’t wait!
As the leaves begin to change colors and the air turns crisp, it's a clear sign that winter is just around the corner. While fall is a beautiful season, it's also the ideal time to start preparing your home for the colder months ahead. Proper fall home preparation can save you money on energy bills, increase your comfort, and protect your property from potential winter damage. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the essential steps to get your home ready for winter here in MHK!
Inspect and Maintain Your Heating System:
Your heating system is your first line of defense against the winter chill. Before the temperature drops, schedule a professional inspection and maintenance service for your furnace, boiler, or heat pump. This will ensure that your system is running efficiently and safely. Don't forget to replace or clean the filters regularly throughout the winter to maintain optimal performance. Our Agents can give you information or numbers for options to call!
Seal Gaps and Insulate:
Proper insulation is key to keeping your home warm and energy-efficient during the winter. Check for gaps and drafts around windows, doors, and any other openings. Seal them with weatherstripping or caulk to prevent heat loss. Additionally, consider adding extra insulation to your attic and walls if necessary. This will help maintain a consistent temperature and reduce heating costs.
Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts:
Falling leaves can clog your gutters and downspouts, leading to water damage when ice dams form. Clean out any debris and make sure your gutters are securely attached. Consider installing gutter guards to prevent future clogs.
Check Your Roof:
Inspect your roof for any damaged or missing shingles. Addressing these issuesnow can prevent leaks and water damage during the winter. It’s also a good time to trim overhanging branches to prevent ice and snow accumulation on your roof.
Winterize Your Outdoor Plumbing:
To prevent frozen pipes, disconnect and drain your garden hoses. Shut off the outdoor water supply, and consider insulating any exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements, garages, or crawlspaces. Make sure to keep the indoor temperature warm enough to prevent pipes from freezing.
Prepare Your Fireplace and Chimney:
If you have a wood-burning fireplace, have it professionally cleaned and inspected. Stock up on firewood, and ensure your chimney cap is in good condition to prevent pests from entering. If you have a gas fireplace, have it serviced to ensure it's working efficiently and safely.
Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors:
With your heating system in use, it’s crucial to have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Test them and replace batteries if needed. Make sure you have enough detectors in the right locations throughout your home.
Winterize Your Lawn and Garden:
Give your lawn a final mow, remove leaves, and apply fertilizer before the first frost. Bring in or cover outdoor furniture to protect it from winter weather. Consider winterizing your garden by planting cover crops or mulching to protect plants from freezing temperatures.
Stock Up on Winter Supplies:
Don't wait until the first snowfall to realize you're out of essentials. Stock up on winter supplies like shovels, ice melt, and snowblower fuel. Create an emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, blankets, and non-perishable food items.
Create a Winter Home Maintenance Schedule:
Plan ahead by creating a winter maintenance schedule. Include tasks like checking the weather stripping, cleaning your chimney, and replacing furnace filters. Regular maintenance can help you catch and address issues before they become major problems.
Preparing your home for winter in the fall is a smart investment in your comfort, safety, and wallet. By taking these proactive steps, you can enjoy the beauty of the season without worrying about winter's challenges. So, put on your cozy sweater, grab a warm beverage, and start prepping your home for a comfortable and trouble-free winter ahead. Call our Coldwell Banker Agents for help!
It is that time of year again to find the perfect pumpkin! Whether is is for a delicious pie a spooky Jack-o'-Lantern this Halloween season… our agents in blue know the place to start your search!
Head to our October partner A&H Farm to find the PERFECT pumpkin this fall!
Tis the season for all things pumpkin, sweaters, fall leaves and... HOUSE HUNTING!
This time of year, sellers are more motivated and with quicker transactions, now is the time to buy your new home! Fall brings on more opportunites and it is true for real estate as well, are you ready to take advantage?
If so, give us a call at 785-776-1100 and we can help get you started.
This month we're partnering with A&H Farm; a local family farm ran by Andrea and Hugo along with their 8 children! With generations of farming experience and years of working with local Farmers Markets, they provide a unique experience for all ages! Every year they expand what they offer to their customers: from what they grow, the animals they have, different events and games; with this fall featuring the KC Chiefs maze!
A&H Farms' goal is "to provide a fun family place you can visit!"
If you did not receive a coupon and want one, please give us a call at 785-776-1100.
