KATHY’S HOME & GARDEN TIPS – Pre Winter Maintenance

We need to do a double check around the exterior of our homes before winter sets in. Now the weather is still fairly nice so it’s a lot easier to work outside. Many of these simple tasks will prevent costly repairs down the road and save you money on energy too.

Check the roof first. Many expensive roof repairs can be much cheaper if found early before more damage is caused. If you are comfortable on a ladder this is an easy job. Check for any loose shingles. Look around roof lines and around vents and chimneys. Is everything tacked down and secure? You can do these repairs yourself if you are handy but a roofing contractor can do these jobs in a few hours for a few hundred dollars.

Gutters are also a very important part of keeping your roof in good shape. Good flowing gutters keep water from overflowing and eventually getting under the shingles and causing damage. Gutter covers work some but smaller leaves and debris still find their way in. Clean now then once again after all the leaves had fallen.

Trim trees near the roof and sides of the house. These can blow in severe winter winds and cause damage to the roof and siding. Heavy snow covered branches can break and fall on the roof or even break a window.

Clear any vegetation around the foundation. This material retains moisture that can deteriorate the foundation and prevent rain and snow water from flowing away. Foundation debris can also be a welcoming home to vermin. Check and double check outside drains after heavy rain storms. These drains are invaluable for keeping water away from the basement and foundation. All it takes is one clogged drain to have a basement flood.

Clean around the air conditioner compressor. This unit needs good air flow year around. It was previously thought that winter covering was necessary but now we know that can cause very moist conditions leading to rust. Keep the area around the unit clear. No close plantings. Keep clear of leaves and snow.

Check all exterior doors and windows for leaks. Make sure all caulking is in good shape with no deterioration or cracking. Caulking is one of the easiest ways to save on heat usage. Just make sure you use a caulk rated for outdoor use.

KATHLEEN WEAVER-ZECH & DEAN’S TEAM CHICAGO