The declining temperature and color changing leaves signify that yes, the season has turned to fall. When the seasons change, so do the day to day chores and activities of homeowners. It is time to make sure that one has prepared for the wet fall months ahead and the freezing winter months that are in sight.

There is nothing worse than having to do chores in both of these types of weather when all one wants to do is stay inside where it is warm, comfortable and cozy. After all, homeowners work hard all year so why shouldn’t they hibernate for a while during the winter?

Here is a collective list, and a few tips on what one can do to prepare their home for the months ahead.

  1. Siding Check––A Person should walk around the exterior of their home, a full 360, and keep their eyes peeled holes or cracks in the vinyl siding that wraps and protects their home. If one discovers a hole in a piece of siding, they should repair or hire someone to correct it immediately as the siding protects a house from the outside elements.
  2. Water Drainage––Rainwater downspouts should regularly be inspected as a homeowner, but when we are in the season of fall, it is even more imperative that one clears any blockage from downspouts and gutter systems. Water should be directed away from foundations and walkways as water causes hazardous damage to both.

Tip: Add an extension to a downspout if necessary.

  1. Windows and Doors––Another regular task of a homeowner should be inspecting the caulking around windows and doors to ensure that they are still well sealed, but this an even more must-do job when fall comes around.
  2. Inspect Trees––One should walk their property and check the trees that inhabit the land close to one’s home. Look for limbs that are cracked and may break off in heavy rain and wind storm. These tree limbs could get caught in the wind and carried onto one’s roof, causing them or debris to clog gutters.
  3. Switch Off Outside Faucets––At this time of year, it is rare to see one outside watering the garden. Consider draining the outside garden hoses and disconnecting them from the spigots. Then, shot off exterior faucets and turn off the water control valve to outdoor faucets from inside the home.
  4. Inspect & Clean Gutters––With rainy weather that comes with fall, it is essential that a home’s gutter system be in tip-top functioning order. A gutter system that is clogged cannot properly do its job of collecting and diverting water away from one’s home.

 

By following this quick checklist, one will be in better shape for the sometimes harsh fall and winter climate we on Vancouver Island endure. Many of these, should be done year round but they are of a high-level of importance this time of year. Be prepared and do a quick check!