Once November hits, cleaning house takes on a new meaning. While folks are still concerned with stuffing boxes in the attic to impress the in-laws, many home renovation projects shift to preventative home maintenance for the upcoming season. Winterize your home in a single weekend with these tips from Mr. Junk.
Home Winterization Checklist
- Inspect and clean the gutters and downspouts
- Inspect the roof for damaged shingles and leaky spots
- Repair cracks in the sidewalk and driveway (a little ice, and those spots get dangerous, fast!)
- Check window frames for decay or rot
- Test windows and doors for drafts
- Replace worn weatherstripping and caulk around windows to replace the seal
- Make sure all home vents and openings are covered to keep out birds and small mammals
- Clean or replace dirty furnace filters
- Use the fireplace? Call a chimney sweep for a seasonal inspection and cleaning
- In fact, schedule an inspection of all heat sources (gas, wood stoves, HVAC systems) before the temps drop for good
- Test smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and home security systems
Lawn Winterization Checklist
Stop fertilizing the lawn and winter perennials (growth after the frost may permanently injure plants)- Drain and winterize irrigation systems and outdoor faucets
- Trim branches that may damage the house or property in a winter storm
- Clean and store patio furniture
- Clean and store gardening equipment like shovels, hoses, and lawn mowers
Need to haul away old branches, worn weather stripping, or warped wood? Call Mr. Junk for a quick, quality home clean up.
