Colin McPartland- Seattle Real Estate Agent- Discusses Fall Home Improvement Projects to Complete Ahead of Winter
Spring and summer are commonly considered the most popular seasons for home improvement, but many experts find that autumn can be a great time for renovations as well. With winter on the way, late fall projects can be beneficial for preventing issues that may arise when the weather changes.
As real estate agent with an interest in helping homeowners protect the value of their property, Colin McPartland recognizes that fall home improvement tips can go a long way towards increasing the lifespan of many important fixtures throughout your home. Here, he explores a few of the most popular home improvement projects that homeowners look to complete ahead of the winter season.
Fix Drafts
One of the best small scale home improvement projects to complete ahead of harsh winter weather is finding and fixing drafts. Drafts are commonly not thought of as an issue by homeowners, but sealing them can very easily help save money through late fall and winter. The U.S Department of Energy reports that up to 30% of cooling and heating costs are because of drafts in our homes. For this reason, homeowners are encouraged to investigate drafts should they hear air whistling or feel a breeze.
Luckily for homeowners, there are several ways that drafts can be fixed- many of which are not costly. For example, weather stripping doors and windows and applying caulk to window frames can be great places to start. Some drafts may be due to poor insulation. If this is the case, consider an upgrade as they have a good return on investment and can help contribute to a more energy efficient home.
Clean Fireplace
Around 27% of home heating fires are caused by dirty chimneys- emphasizing the importance of ensuring that your fireplace is well maintained ahead of using it for the season. Experts recommend having your fireplace cleaned at least once a year, and a typical visit from a chimney sweep will also include an inspection of both the fireplace and chimney for deterioration, cracks, and debris buildup as well.
Fireplaces can add value to a home and are cozy for late fall and winter months if well maintained, so do not get complacent about keeping them in working order. If you intend on using your fireplace, always check with a professional cleaner ahead of any potential problems popping up.
Check Your HVAC
A working HVAC system is a must have ahead of the winter, and it is important that homeowners follow a checklist to ensure that their systems are in good shape. One of the first steps for evaluating your HVAC’s performance is to check the air filters. Working filters are a quick and efficient way to keep systems working properly, and it is generally recommended to replace them at least once every 90-days depending on the model and its efficiency. Cleaning your outdoor unit to ensure that it is clear of any debris and potential hazards is also crucial- damage to coils inside the unit can create issues later in the season.
If your HVAC system seems as though it could use a tune up, prior to winter is a great time to call a specialist. HVAC contractors can inspect your unit, clean it as necessary, and test its safety controls to be sure that it is working efficiently and safely. Specialists can also tell you if your HVAC unit may need a replacement. Outdated models may be less powerful and use more energy to keep up with the cold.
Inspect Roof and Gutters
For many areas across the US, winters can be cold and wet. Homeowners will naturally want to check their exterior to keep water from damaging their homes. A foundational step for preventing water damage in late fall and winter is to clean your gutters. Fall leaves can present a huge clogging risk for gutters, preventing them from diverting water away from your home as intended. Clogged gutters can quickly lead to water damage on the roof, exterior, and even the basement. Experts recommend quick improvements such as gutter guards to keep debris from causing trouble later in the season.
Moisture can also be a problem be a problem for roofs. Homeowners concerned about the current state of their roof may want to consult an expert who can check for leaks or replace any shingles that are damaged or missing. Colin McPartland acknowledges that many homeowners forget roof maintenance, but it is crucial for prolonging the life of your roof. Smaller repairs and expert consultations are typically much less money than fixing damage caused by neglect season after season.
Consider Outdoor Maintenance
For areas that get particularly harsh winters, there are many considerations for outdoor maintenance that are great to address during the fall. For example, homeowners that have wooden decks may want to take steps such as inspecting for cracks and splinters, loose nails, and screws, as well as consider adding water repelling stain to prevent damage from ice and snow. These maintenance tasks will drastically increase the lifespan of your deck and outdoor features.
Some outdoor home improvement tasks such as keeping your yard free from debris that could fall and cause damage are also recommended ahead of winter. One common hazard is weak branches that may give way when it starts to snow. If you notice any potential hazards outdoors that may be an issue during the winter, fall is a great time to address them. Curb appeal is important for eventually selling your home, but Colin notes that it is paramount for feeling safe and secure in your home prior as well.
