In our last blog, we started the long checklist for Fall to protect your home and your family. This time we will complete the list and hope that you will find it a helpful and useful tool to maintain your home and keep your family safe and sound!
Should you need a list of recommended professionals to help with your projects, Karen can help with that. Check out Salters Sources on her website.
Replace the Furnace Filters
This mistake is an incredibly common one. Filters need to be changed often multiple times per year, and fall is a great time to do it. Dirty or clogged filters put a strain on your system making the units work harder and increasing the stress on the units and increasing the size of your utility bills. Clean washable filters with warm soapy water and allow to fully try. Put your disposable ones on a schedule.
TIP: Disposable filters can be vacuumed once before replacement
Inspect your fireplace
Fireplaces should really be inspected annually. Creosote (a flammable by-product of burning wood) buildup is dangerous hazard and should be cleared by a chimney professional.
The most effective option is to call a professional. A chimney sweep can do a thorough job and knows all the hazards including bird’s nests and other blockages if your chimney is missing a flue cap.
Inspect Wood Stoves
Wood-burning stoves are making a comeback and are straightforward to maintain. However, don’t forget to add them to our list to inspect.
Check the stovepipe for cracks as cracks can leak toxic fumes. Look for any holes or loose joints. Make sure the stovepipe is clean, and tight fitting.
For safety with young children make sure you have a barrier between the stove and the children.
Inspect and Repair Steps and Walkways
We do get hard freezes as well as ice storms in Atlanta. These can damage concrete and stone pathways and if there are already damages like cracks or missing pieces, then the next icy conditions will do further damage that will cost way more to repair. So, make repairs before the next snow and ice storms come.
Paint/Stain or Touch Up Exterior Surfaces
An extra coat of paint of sealer can extend the life of your siding and trim on your home, and fall is a perfect time to take advantage of the pleasant temperatures to do it. It’s also a good time to take on cleaning and staining our decks and porches. After are fortunate to be able to enjoy our decks year-round.
Tip: Don’t wait too late. Check your temperatures on the days you plan to paint. When temperatures are colder than 45 to 50 degrees, it’s considered too cold to apply paint.
Prep Your Lawn for Winter
Most of the grasses used in Atlanta lawns go dormant in the winter. But if you perform these three steps now, it will prepare your lawn for winter and have it looking great in spring.
- Rake Leaves
- Aerate
- Fertilize Grass and Shrubs
If you have more real estate questions or needs, please contact Karen today and she will be happy to help you! In the meantime, wishing you and your home a wonderfully happy and healthy fall!
