Your home is an investment, for some the largest investment in their portfolio, and unlike other investments, it requires maintenance, particularly necessary when seasons change. And while Southern California does not have the most extreme fall and wintertime conditions, preparing your home for colder weather will protect your investment and provide peace of mind. Here are seven tips for Southern California homeowners to consider.
Inspect And Trim Trees During Cold Weather Months
As temperatures drop and rain season arrives, inspecting and trimming trees is essential during cold weather months. A leading cause of home roof damage comes from trees weakened by wind and rain. Inspect and trim trees when necessary, and clear the yard from anything that could become a flying projectile as well.
Check The Furnace During Cold Weather Months
While Southern California furnaces do not get the use of those in homes elsewhere, it’s still important to have heating units checked every year before they are engaged. Especially during cold weather months! Poorly maintained furnaces can generate carbon monoxide. Clean the area around the furnace, store nothing close by that may interfere with airflow, and call a licensed heating contractor.
Check The Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Cooler temperatures in the fall and winter months result in more fires and carbon monoxide poisoning than at any other time of the year. It’s important to check your detectors monthly and to replace batteries when required, but particularly so when colder weather visits So Cal.
Check The Roof And Remove Debris During Cold Weather Months
It stands to reason the best time to inspect, clean, and fix any issues with your roof is right before or at the start of the rain season. It is best to have your roof inspected before or at the start of cold weather months. Summer and adverse weather can affect shingles, flashings, and waterproofing materials, creating expensive problems down the road if not timely addressed. If you are not handy, hire a professional.
Inspect and Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Depending on the gutter system you use, this is a chore that requires frequent attention. Clogged gutters and downspouts damage siding, roofs, and windows. This is an area where a little attention goes a long way toward heading off unnecessary expense and aggravation.
Locate and Seal Cracks and Gaps
All homes settle all the time, even newer homes, and when they do, cracks and gaps form, allowing in water, pests, and cold air. Before the colder weather arrives, a careful walkthrough of your home is always a good idea. Use caulk to seal smaller cracks and plastic foam filler to seal larger.
Touch-up Paint Your Home and Deck Where Needed
Paint does more than just enhance your home’s appearance, it helps protect wood siding against the elements. Touching up the exterior paint is a great way to seal and insulate your home against colder weather.
Preparing your home for fall and winter will save you time and money. Get started today and enjoy the change of season.