Fall is a great time to start those home improvement projects that you have been putting off all year. With the holidays steadily approaching, many people are looking to get their homes ready for friends and family. Prior to tackling home improvement projects, it is wise to gauge the scale of the project and decide if it's necessary to call a professional. Here are a few tips can help keep you and your family comfortable, healthy and safe for the holiday season.
Since the heater hasn't been used for several months, calling your HVAC professional or utility company to have it checked is wise. Dust can collect in and around the system, so cleaning the air vents in your home and changing the filters will keep your heater working more efficiently. A professional should clean the ducts where your vacuum will not reach to rid your home of any hidden hazards.
Keep in mind that insulation is not just for colder climates. A home with proper insulation will help you achieve lower heating and cooling costs year round. Insulating your home involves relatively easy tasks like caulking and weather-stripping around windows and doors, to bigger jobs like having insulation installed in attics and basements. For wall insulation jobs, you should seek professional assistance. There are building codes involved in major insulation projects designed to prevent fires and harm, so make sure the company you contract is up to date with the latest information.
Don't forget about the outside of your house. Clean leaves and debris from gutters to reduce pest infestations and wood rot. Insulate your pipes from the colder weather; wrap the pipes with old t-shirts or foam insulation to prevent the pipes from freezing. Keep your landscaping near the top of your to-do list, and prune your trees, bushes and fertilize the lawn.
The cooler weather is a good time to take care of any painting projects as well. The windows can be opened to help dry interior rooms, and you decrease the likelihood of heat exhaustion in the cooler climate. This also goes for shampooing carpets, cleaning out the garage and crawling in the attic to inspect the roof for any leaks or damage, which are all miserable jobs in the midst of summer heat.
By following a maintenance schedule and routine in your home you can save money, conserve energy and prevent costly repairs. Removing dust and debris will help keep your family healthy and avert potential fire hazards. Not to mention you get to spend less time worrying about your home maintenance, and more time with your family during the holiday season.
