How Do I Get My Home Ready for Fall?

Where did summer go? We can’t believe Labor Day has come and gone and fall is already upon us. Here come cooler temps, changing foliage, and all the pumpkin spice you could ever want. But if the autumn season snuck up on you too, you might have missed some important home maintenance tasks. This little checklist will get you back on track and help keep your home safe, efficient, and looking great this fall.

1. Check Air Flow
If you haven’t already, give your furnace a little test run to make sure it works. Check the vents and air intakes around your home for dust. Clear away any blockages that might dampen air flow. Change your air filters if it has been a couple of months. And call your HVAC professional for a seasonal inspection and tune up.

2. Chimney Sweep
A fireplace is a great addition to almost any home, but it does come with some maintenance. Before use, you want to check the fireplace and chimney. Make sure they are free of debris. Clean the flue and the liners so ash and soot does not build up over the fall and winter. Then, test your gas or electric fireplaces to make sure they are in working condition. Soon it will be time to cozy up and you don’t want to be left disappointed on a cold night.

3. Clean and Store Patio Furniture
At the end of the summer season, is it always a good idea to clean away the dirt and dust that has built up on your porches and patio. You should also make your repairs and refinish any decking that has cracked or chipped and seal the surfaces against the winter. Wash your patio furniture and store or cover it for the harsher weather.

4. Clear the Gutters
Even though leaves will be falling, now is a good time to get up on the ladder to clean out and inspect your gutters. Remove any debris or sediment that has built up in the bottom and make sure all the downspouts are clear. Otherwise, ice and show can build up, causing an ice dam that could ruin your roof and walls.

5. Check Seals and Insulation
Last but not least, make sure all your windows and doors latch and seal properly. This way, you know your home will run as efficiently as possible, keeping the warm air in and the cold air out. You can test for air leaks by turning on the exhaust fans and running a stick of burning incense around the window and door frames. If the smoke pulls towards you, you likely have a leak. You can patch some leaks with caulking or new weather stripping. But in some cases, outdated windows and doors requirean upgrade before winter.

For replacement windows or doors in Beaverton, OR, call EnergyGuard. Our professionals will come to your home and offer a free inspection and consultation. Our professional and reliable team will help you get the best products at the best prices. Call to set up an appointment at 503-554-5500. Or come to our showroom at 516 E. 2nd St., Newberg, OR 97132.