Remember to Prep This November: Home Maintenance Checklist to Get Ready for Winter

It is a crazy time of year, and we know that life is particularly hectic right now. It’s time to prepare for the holiday season, family visitors, school breaks, and sometimes crazy weather. Our checklist for your home maintenance is pretty manageable this month and won’t add too much to your plate, but many are vital to ensuring you escape the winter season without any home issues. Now, for dealing with your in-laws, you’re on your own, but here’s what you should focus on house-wise!

Check Fire Extinguisher

Since we’re about to deck the halls and all that jazz, it is vital that you check your fire extinguisher this month. While all of the decorations, garland, and lights can transform your home into a “winter wonderland,” there’s a spike in house fires this time of year. Be sure that your fire extinguisher is still operational by following the guidelines below and also check out the National Fire Protection Association’s website for further recommendations: 

1. Easily accessible- You want to put your fire extinguisher in a place that you can quickly retrieve it, should the need for it arise. For most households, this is in the kitchen, and it’s often stored under the sink. 

2. Appropriate pressure- Most fire extinguishers have a pressure gauge to indicate whether or not the extinguisher is in the proper range. You can check this gauge if yours has one. Yours may also have a test indicator. If so, press this test indicator to ensure the pressure is reading in the appropriate range. 

3. Physical inspection- Take a look at your extinguisher, checking for any signs of damage. If it is rusted or dented, you need a new one. Your hose and nozzle on your fire extinguisher should also appear to be in working order. 

4. Clean your extinguisher- Wipe off any dust and/or properly remove any oil/grease as necessary. 

Take this opportunity to familiarize yourself with your extinguisher, checking the date of the inspection tag, too, how often it should be inspected and whether or not you should do any monthly maintenance. For example, some extinguishers need to be shaken every month, and some may not be suitable for all materials. Review the information on the NFPA’s website or reach out to your local fire department to be sure you know how to properly maintain your devices in your home. 

It might also be a great idea to re-evaluate your fire escape plan with your family or create one if you just “haven’t gotten to it yet.” Ready.gov is a great resource if you need assistance in this department, too!

Store Away Outdoor Furniture 

Now that it is officially fall and winter will be here in a month, it is time to store away your outdoor furniture. You’ve probably seen the first frost— or will soon— and we don’t want our outdoor furniture exposed to the harsher elements of the season. Bring in all outdoor furniture and store it in your outdoor shed, basement, or garage. 

If you don’t have space anywhere with a roof, you can easily create a makeshift storage area with the help of a few tarps. You may even want to grab an extra palette— if you have one— and elevate your furniture off of the ground, close to a spot outside of your house that might be covered by an overhang or be shielded a bit more. Then just drape your tarps over and secure them with whatever you may have around: bungee cords, bricks, or rope should keep the tarps on or down and protect your furniture. 

Close Crawl Space Vents

Now is the time of year when you want to make sure your home is running efficiently and you aren’t spending your hard-earned money heating any “dead space”. This would include your crawl spaces. Close your crawl space vents, so that area isn’t letting out any heat and your furnace or heater system has fewer areas to heat up. 

Inspect Attic

Again, this is mainly to prevent any larger issues down the road or simply to save some money in your monthly utility bills. Get on up there and inspect your attic for the following things: 

• Ventilation- Look for any signs of mold, rusted nails, or water leaks/condensation anywhere within your attic. Water stains, rot, and mold are all indicators of a leaking attic. If you see any, call in a professional. 

• Insulation- You should not feel drafts anywhere in your attic. In addition, your attic should have plenty of insulation and be free of any rips or tears. 

• Pests- If you see any animal or rodent droppings, nests, or build-up of leaves, acorns, etc., you may have some unexpected visitors, as well as damage to your insulation. 

If you notice any of the above, it is time to call in a professional and follow their guidance on your attic issues, but you should have no problem doing a regular, visual inspection yourself. 

Dust All Rooms Including Windows 

Finally, give your house a good wipe down! Blast that cleaning mix and dust all areas of your home, clean your windows, and get your place dust and debris free before “decking” your halls! 

As always, if you have any questions about the recommended maintenance tasks above or need a local professional to help, reach out to our team and we’ll be happy to guide you! And, if we don’t say it before the day arrives, we are thankful for you– and all of our clients and partners– and wish you a Happy Thanksgiving. Now, get cookin’, good lookin’ and don’t forget to prep for more thank your turkey this month, it’s time to prep for winter, too!