The time change last weekend settled it: fall is here and winter is on its way. Is your home prepared to weather the cooler temperatures? Fall is the perfect time for some routine home maintenance; while the weather is still moderate, it’s time to put in some work to equip your home for the winter months. Read on for a simple checklist to help you maintain your Seabrook Island real estate property.
Outdoor Fall Home Maintenance
Rake the leaves: Keeping a tidy yard can help deter pests from making your home theirs when the temperature drops.
Repair or replace siding: Siding helps prevent water from entering your home. Although the fall and winter months are drier than the spring and fall, the Lowcountry is subject to storms year-round.
Touch up your home’s exterior: A little paint can do wonders for the overall look of your home’s exterior.
Seal cracks in points of entry: Repairing weather stripping and caulking gaps near doors and windows will make your energy use more efficient.
Inspect your roof: Regularly check your roof for damaged or missing shingles, which can lead to leaks indoors.
Indoor Maintenance
Once you’ve taken care of the outdoor home maintenance, you have time to focus on the things that are happening indoors. Many of these are not season specific, but the change in the weather can be a good reminder to check up on the following items:
Inspect and unclog drains: If you’ve been noticing your drains in the bathtub and sinks draining slower than usual, now is the time to investigate the issue and clear your pipes of debris.
Examine electrical cords: Over the years, the cords of our most-used electronics suffer from wear and tear. Take a look at all of your cords to ensure that there are no weak spots or frays.
Test emergency equipment: Test your smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers, and any other emergency equipment that you have on your property.
Clean the fireplace: If you have a fireplace, clean out the flue and check for debris or other hazards.
Have a professional examine major home appliances: Before the in-laws come to visit and the children return from college or jobs around the country, make sure your major home appliances are functioning properly. Give them a tune-up if you know how or contact a professional to assist.
Once you’ve finished up with your home maintenance checklist, be sure to take a look at the town of Seabrook Island’s calendar of fall and winter social and athletic activities!