Fall is a wonderful time in Grapevine, Texas — and it’s a smart idea to make sure your home is ready for the changing weather!
Yes, this is the time of year to fix small problems before they become big, and big ones before they become catastrophic. Here are 10 tips to help:
- Look up. Examine your roof closely. Clear debris from your gutters and downspouts, and repair any damage – we have a trusted roofer we can refer if you need someone to inspect your roof for damage, so just give us a call or send us an email to ask! Have tree branches over-hanging your roof? This is a real hazard that should be dealt with as soon as possible. When selecting a tree trimmer, make sure you call a trusted (referrals are the best!) and insured tree trimmer out to trim up those trees.
- Look down. Check for signs of animals and insects around your home and garage, including in the basement and crawlspace. Bring in a professional to get rid of unwanted guests.
- Keep things warm. Heat escapes through leaks around windows and doors, so seal up any drafty areas. Outside, put covers over faucets before temperatures drop.
- Clear the air (or vents and filters, at least). When’s the last time you checked your dryer vent? You should take a look at attic vents and exhaust ducts, as well. And, change that HVAC filter!
- Take a walk. Cracks in your driveway or walkways will only get bigger, so get them fixed soon. If your deck has signs of wear, make repairs now.
- Get a tune-up. You or a professional should clean and tune your HVAC and water heater, as well as your oven and range.
- Don’t play with fire. Before building your first fireplace fire of the season, check for soot or creosote build-up.
- Don’t play with fire extinguishers, either. But, check them to ensure they still have pressure. Don’t have fire extinguishers? Put them on your shopping list, ideally one for each floor.
- Don’t forget those smoke and carbon-monoxide detectors. Replace batteries when needed, and test regularly that alarms are working.
- Check for Radon levels. Radon is an odorless, naturally occurring gas that is everywhere inside and out of the home. According to the EPA, indoor radon levels should be checked periodically in order to make sure your family is not at increased risk of the consequences of long-term exposure.
Keeping your home insurance policy in tip-top condition is smart, too. Remember to check in with us at least once a year to update your policy so you’re covered for your new remodel, additions or personal possessions.
Reposted and personalized with permission from the original author, Safeco Insurance®.
