December is here with all its joy, festivities, and of course, long to do lists! With all the hustle and bustle, it can be easy to forget a few maintenance tasks for your home. However, whether you just purchased your home, or if you are thinking of selling in the future, keeping up with maintenance is the best way to protect your investment and prevent headaches down the line. To help simplify your holiday season, we've made a winter home maintenance checklist for you!
Check gutters for debris
Do you see icicles forming on the side of your house? While they can provide a festive look, icicles can be a major safety issue and could cause preventable damage to your property. Ensure that your gutters are free of debris to prevent ice dams and water damage. Clean gutters and downspouts of leaves and other debris to ensure proper water drainage. Pro tip: Canadian winter is not the time for ladders! Use an extendable roof rake.
Examine your garage door
Don't make the mistake of discovering your garage door is due for an upgrade during a snowstorm! Inspect your garage door as soon as possible! Start by inspecting the door's overall condition. Check for any visible damage, such as dents or warping, which might compromise its ability to provide an effective barrier against the cold. Lubricate the hinges, rollers, and tracks to ensure smooth operation, especially in freezing temperatures. If your garage door is equipped with an automatic opener, test its responsiveness. Cold weather can affect the performance of garage door openers, so it's crucial to confirm that it opens and closes smoothly. Check the batteries in the remote control and replace them if necessary.
Check exterior lights
With short days and icy pathways, ensuring proper lighting is crucial to both the aesthetic and safety of your home. Snow, strong winds, and changing temperatures can be harsh on any part of your home, including the lights. Check for loose wires, corrosion, or cracked casings regularly throughout the winter.
Check for mould and mildew
Examine areas prone to dampness for any signs of mold or mildew. Addressing this early can prevent potential health issues and structural damage. Some key spots to look include: behind the refrigerator and stove, around and under sinks, bathroom floor, behind the toilet, and windowsills. If you are seeing some dampness, it may also be a clue to check for leaks in the toilets or sinks.
Preventative Furnace Maintenance
The true unsung hero of Canadian winters is your humble household furnace! You can ensure your furnace is working its best this holiday season by performing some quick preventative maintenance. Begin by replacing the furnace filter, a simple yet crucial task that promotes optimal airflow and reduces strain on the system. Check for any unusual sounds or odors during operation, as these can be early indicators of potential issues. If you notice any concerns, book a professional inspection before it causes any major problems.
Thanks for reading today’s BLOG!!!
Brian Kondo
Sales Representative / Team Leader
The Brian Kondo Real Estate Team
Re/Max Hallmark First Group Realty Ltd.
905-683-7800 office
905-426-7484 direct
brian@briankondo.com
www.BrianKondo.com
www.BrianKondoTeam.com
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