TimothyPope's blog

Timely maintenance is paramount in keeping your home’s value and enjoyment at its peak level. Preventative care of your home and its systems can save you money and can help you avoid costly repairs. Here are a few recommended items to service during the cold season:

• Inspect the roof for damage after winter storms. Ice buildup and wind can knock down tree limbs causing damage to your roof covering which could allow water to penetrate. It is recommended that homeowners check their roof from the ground, using binoculars if necessary, to ensure safety. If further examination is required, contact a professional to inspect your roof, clear debris, and make repairs.
• Check for drafts along doors and windows to determine if caulking or weather stripping repair is needed. This can help cut down on utility bills and also keep out insects that might be seeking warmer weather.
• Keep pests out by adding screens to block entry points. Install screens at roof, gable, and crawlspace vents to ward off unwanted house guests. Do not screen dryer vents as this may create a trap for lint and result in a fire hazard.
• Replace or clean furnace air filters. This routine task can prolong the life of your system by keeping debris out of sensitive components. Some filters are also designed to remove allergens from the air, which may help your family breathe easier.
• Exercise fireplace safety. Always use firewood that is dry and was cut for this purpose. Make sure that the flue damper is in the open position and use a screen or glass doors to keep burning embers from getting out. Never leave a fire unattended.
• Inspect sink drains and plumbing shutoff valves for leaks. It is best to feel the pipe connections and shut off valves when searching for signs of moisture as observation alone might not reveal small leaks. Remedies may include tightening the connections, adding pipe sealant or applying Teflon tape. More involved repairs may require several trips to the hardware store. When in doubt, a qualified plumber should be consulted.
• Inspect caulking around sinks, showers & bathtubs. Even small cracks or holes in caulk and tile grout can allow water to enter. Moisture inside the walls can result in mold growth or substantial structural damage if left unchecked. Reseal grout and caulk as necessary.
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly. Replace batteries every six months. Properly working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are the last line of defense in protecting you and your family from fires and poisonous gases.