Summer is behind us and the holiday season is not that far away. As we approach the holiday season, the tendency to focus on family and friends is high and that is great. But you don’t want to neglect one of your biggest financial investments – your home.
It is a known fact that winter can be really harsh on the exterior of you home during that three to four month period, so it may be a good idea to take carefully inspect your home with a notepad and camera in hand for noticeable changes to the exterior. Take notes and pictures of anything that seems a bit off. If you are not sure what to look for, we have provided a simple winter checklist.
- Windows, doors and siding: Is there missing caulk or visible cracks in the sealant? If so, this should be addressed to help keep air and water from penetrating your home.
- Damaged wood trim: Once wood begins to show signs of rot or decay, problems will accelerate rapidly. Damaged areas hold water, and this can grow into a much larger structural issue, which can be really expensive to repair.
- Gutters and downspouts: Are they clean? It may be hard to tell since they are not transparent. Look for stains around the opening of the gutters. This is an indication of overflowing water. Cascading water into the gutter is the most obvious sign of a problem.
- Drainage: Do the downspouts drain far enough away from the house? A safe distance will keep water from damaging the foundation of the house.
- The roof and flashing: How old is the roof? Are there any missing shingles? Check to see if the flashing from the chimney is pulling away.
If you find any of problems that are listed above and you feel unsure on how to address them, ask a friend, relative or a neighbor if they know a reliable contractor. Taking care of your home’s exterior before the holidays will give you peace of mind. And will give you a sense of accomplishment, knowing that you have done your job protecting your home.
