An Autumn Checklist For The Home
Autumn is the perfect time to take care of the little things that can make a big difference for you and your home. It’s time to get your home cosy and ready for Winter.
Here’s my Autumn checklist
I use it every year starting with the 1st September. Many may dispute it but September 1st is always the first day of Autumn for me.
- Inspect and clean gutters and downspouts.
- Seal gaps and cracks around windows and doors with weather-stripping and caulk.
- Inspect your roof for damaged or curled shingles, corroded flashing, or leaky vents.
- Take steps to repair damaged driveways, and steps.
- Drain and winterize outdoor taps and irrigation systems.
- Have a professional inspect your heating system.
- Check fireplaces for soot or creosote build-up. Better yet, schedule a visit from a reputable chimney sweep.
- Clean the plates or pads to ensure efficient operation.
- Especially relevant If you have a gas-fired room heater, have it inspected by a professional. Also, perform any routine maintenance recommended by the maker.
- Wood stoves are everywhere. To avoid a deadly situation, be sure to inspect yours before firing it up.
- Finally, a home safety check should be an annual ritual in every household. Test smoke and CO monitors, inspect (or install) fire extinguishers, review fire escape plans, and rid your home of old newspapers and other fire hazards.
