The Fall Checklist Every Homeowner Needs to Do

With fall officially here, it’s the perfect time to do some annual maintenance that will go a long way in helping you avoid potentially expensive repairs and damages down the road.

Trees & Shrubs

It’s easy to forget all about these self-sufficient elements in your yard, but you should not. It’s the perfect time to give them a hard look. Are there limbs there are growing close to your house, or your chimney? The last thing that you want is a dead tree falling
on your roof. Winter in our North Atlanta climate can mean lots of rainfall. Rainfall plus the notoriously shallow roots of our beloved pine trees, can spell disaster.

Check for diseased trees too. If you are unsure or in doubt, call an arborist. They are affordable and can give all your trees the onceover, and give you peace of mind.

Leaves

Once they have fallen, clean them up. It’s simply bad for the grass to leave them over winter. Get the kids involved and buying a blower may be the best money you can spend. It’s great for quickly cleaning up driveways, decks and porches too, when you
have company coming over. Wet leaves can also create a really slick surface making it dangerous for family members and guests.

Gutters and Downspouts

Do not overlook this especially if you have lots of trees. Leaving your gutters clogged can cause water to pool and damage your roof and siding. It also encourages squirrels to move in!

Roof

Make any roof repairs that you may need now. You may need to hire a professional to inspect your roof. Ask for photographs, so you can see what they are reporting.

Closing All Gaps

It’s shocking how easily mice and squirrels can get in. The tiniest of gaps make you vulnerable. Squirrels in the attic are a huge problem for North Atlanta homeowners.

There are multiple wildlife companies that stay in busy fighting this problem. They will also perform a sealing service and homeowners can go under contract getting inspections every year, as well as routine checks of attic space for monitoring.

Fill small holes and cover any larger gaps. There is also a spray foam product that works well to fill in those areas where AC units and Cables come into the home.

Faucets

Protect your pipes from freezing temperatures by shutting off water to exterior faucets before the weather dips below freezing. Don’t forget to drain any hoses and bring them inside.

Here are just a few local companies that you can use to help you with your Fall Checklist.

Dr Roof https://www.drroof.com/

Acorn Tree Arborist https://www.acorntreecare.com/certified-arborist-geo/ga/milton.html

Northwest Wildlife https://www.callnorthwest.com/wildlife-animal-control/

For more recommendations and to discuss any and all of your real estate questions, please give Karen a call.