Fall is upon us and winter is on the way. Time to start preparing your home from the colder weather. From checking the roof to getting replacement windows in Seattle, WA, here are some things you need to do:
Fix Roof Leaks
In Seattle, WA there is never a good time to discover you have roof leaks. But the worst time is just before winter. Fall is your last chance to fix your roof before it gets blanketed in snow. So look for signs of stains or discoloration on ceilings in the attic or top floor of your home. And if you do have a leak, contact a roofing company to come out and fix the problem as soon as possible.
Clear the Gutters
And while you are taking care of the roof, be sure to also check your gutters. In the fall you should try to clean out your gutters every week to remove leaves and large debris. You want to make sure your gutters and downspouts direct water down and away from your home’s foundation. You also want to make sure they are securely attached to the roof. If you notice anything obvious, like a missing piece or a loose pipe, should get fixed immediately.
Blow Out Sprinklers and Insulate your Pipes
Outdoor pipes and plumbing can freeze and burst. To reduce the risk of freezing you want to have your sprinkler system blown out each year by a professional. You should also remove hoses from their connections and insulate hose bibs with covers you can get from the hardware store.
Seal the Driveway
Ice and snow are tough on concrete, and so is the salt used in deicing. One thing you can do to protect your driveway is applying a fresh sealant every fall. You can pick up a kit from the hardware store and apply it to a clean driveway on a warm, dry fall day.
Prune and Trim Trees
If you notice dead branches, or limbs hovering dangerously over your roof, it might be time for a tree trimming. Cutting back the branches on trees and shrubs prepares them for better growth in the spring, and also limits the risk of accidental breakage during the harsh winter.
Add Mulch to Garden Beds
Want to protect your garden this winter? Add a layer of insulation with fresh mulch. This can help protect soil and plants so they are ready to go come springtime.
Clean and Store Outdoor Furniture
Have a patio you have enjoyed all summer? To keep enjoying it next year you want to be sure your clean and cover your patio furniture. If you can, store it in a shed or garage over the winter. If not, wash it off and cover it with large tarps to protect it from the ice and snow.
Check Windows and Doors
The last thing you need to do is check your windows and doors for air leaks. You don’t need cold air leeching in all winter driving up your heating bills. You can fix some leaks with new weather stripping or caulk. But windows that are older than 15 years old might need to be replaced if you want maximum efficiency this winter.
Call Signature Window today to schedule a consultation for replacement windows in Seattle, WA. Our experts can provide the best advice about which windows will best suit your needs and budget. And calling in the fall usually means easier scheduling and shorter wait times. Contact us at (253) 887-7792 or stop by 22613 68th Ave. S. Kent, WA 98032.
