Here are ten things you can do to prepare your home for fall in Florida:
Clean your gutters: Your roof’s drainage system annually diverts thousands of gallons of water from your home’s exterior and foundation walls—so it’s vital to keep this system flowing smoothly. Clogged gutters can lead to damaged exterior surfaces and water in your basement. Gutters are also more prone to rust and corrosion when clogged. Before the leaves fly this fall, clean your gutters, then cover them with mesh gutter guards to keep debris from returning.
Seal up air leaks: A home with air leaks around windows and doors is like a coat left unbuttoned. Gaps in caulk and weatherstripping let cold air into your warm home, and sealing up a drafty house can save up to 20 percent on your heating bills, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Weatherstripping is easily the most cost-effective way to rein in heating and cooling costs. This humble material also reduces drafts and keeps your home more comfortable year-round. Because weatherstripping can deteriorate over time, it is important to inspect it periodically. If you suspect a problem with your weatherstripping, try closing a door or window on a strip of paper. If the paper slides easily, your weatherstripping isn’t properly sealing the opening. Alternatively, close the door or window and hold a lighted candle near the frame (but don’t let the flame get near anything flammable). If the flame flickers at any spot along the frame, you have an air leak. In addition to inspecting weatherstripping, check for missing or damaged caulk around windows, doors, and entry points for electrical, cable, phone, and gas. Seal any gaps with a suitable caulk.
Inspect your roof: Check for missing or damaged shingles and replace them before winter arrives.
Check your heating system: Have a professional inspect your heating system before you need to use it .
Clean chimneys and fireplaces: Have a professional clean and inspect chimneys and fireplaces before using them.
Plant cool-season vegetables: In Florida, fall is an excellent time to start a vegetable garden. Cool-season vegetables to plant in October include broccoli, lettuce, carrots, Brussels sprouts, and radishes.
Check smoke detectors: Replace batteries in smoke detectors and test them to ensure they are working properly.
Decorate for fall: Show off your fall spirit by hanging a festive wreath or floral arrangement on your front door.
Check outdoor lighting: Replace bulbs in outdoor lighting fixtures as needed.
Prepare for hurricanes: Ensure you have hurricane preparation items such as shutters ready.
I hope these tips help you prepare for fall! Fall is a great time of the year to have a annual maintenance inspection. This can help plan your home health for the year to come!
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