Fall is a great time to get outside and get the home ready for winter. Here is a list of exterior maintenance items to complete this fall, from aerating the lawn to investing in replacement windows in Seattle, WA.
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Aerate and Fertilize the Lawn
Aerating and fertilizing the lawn in the fall will give it the boost it needs to burst back to life in the spring. You can easily rent the equipment or hire a professional to come out this fall.
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Trim Trees and Shrubs
It is important to watch your trees and make sure there are no signs of diseased or overgrown branches. If you spot anything that looks suspect, take the time to trim them down. You don’t want these falling down on your roof in the wintertime.
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Check the Roof and Attic
Start by checking the attic to make sure there are not any obvious signs of leaks or damage. Then move outside and climb up on the roof to remove debris and check for loose shingles or tiles.
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Clear Gutters and Downspouts
It is important to make sure your gutters are free of debris before winter sets in. You can simply climb up on a ladder and use an old plastic spatula to scoop out the debris. Then remove any gunk from the downspouts with a hose and a plumber’s snake. This will keep water flowing away from the foundations of your home.
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Wash the Siding
There is probably a lot of grime and buildup on the exterior of your home. Use a power washer to clean the siding. This will help eliminate dirt as well as any mold growth. Just don’t use the power washer to clean the windows. It could break the seals and cause unnecessary leaks.
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Inspect Caulk and Weather-Stripping
Fall is also a good time to test the seals around your windows and doors. You can check for leaks and with a quick trip to the home improvement store replace any damaged caulk or weather-stripping. It is also a good idea to seal up any exterior fenestrations with some insulation to prevent critters from getting inside this winter.
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Clean Window Wells
Fall is also a good time to climb down in the window wells to remove any debris, weeds, leaves, or branches. Keeping the window wells clear is important for safety, especially for egress windows.
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Wash Windows
Cleaning the exterior surfaces of windows is relatively straightforward. It doesn’t require any fancy equipment or products. Most modern windows feature removable sashes or tilt-in sashes for easy and safe cleaning. Simply use mild detergent and water to wash the window frames. And then clean the glass with a generic glass cleaner or a combination of vinegar and water. Wipe dry with a lint-free cloth for a glittering shine.
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Invest in Replacement Windows
While washing the windows you should perform a thorough inspection. In particular, you should watch for scratches, rust, leaks, rot, warping, or broken glass. Any one of these issues could indicate it is time for replacement windows. And getting new windows in before winter is a great way to provide optimal efficiency for your home.
Contact our experts today for more information about preparing for winter and replacement windows in Seattle, WA. We can help you find quality products at the right price.
