Fall is here, bringing with it falling leaves, cooler weather, and the beloved pumpkin spice craze. We are excited and fully prepared for this new season. This is also a great time to attend to our home maintenance before the winter months set in. Here are a few items to check to make sure you’re Council Buffs home remains a safe place for your family.
Examine your outdoor lights
Ensure that all lights are turned on and proceed to walk around the perimeter of the house. Check for any burned-out bulbs and replace them as necessary. Additionally, inspect the lights to make sure none are broken. Consider investing in upgrades such as motion-sensor lights for the front and back of your home to enhance security against burglars. Uplights in the yard can also contribute to a safer environment.
Attend to your dryer vent
According to Consumer Reports, every year firefighters respond to around 14,630 home fires caused by clothes dryers in the United States. Shockingly, one-third of these fires are caused by an accumulation of lint. If you haven’t had your dryer vent cleaned out, you are way overdue and at risk. Simply cleaning out the lint trap is not enough to prevent these potentially dangerous fires.
Seal your outdoor surfaces
Cold temperatures and snow can cause paint to peel, leading to moisture intrusion and wood rot. It’s recommended to apply a stain and sealant to protect exterior surfaces. This step can extend the life of your home and prevent dangerous mold growth.
Protect your outdoor furniture
Storing or covering your patio furniture is essential for prolonging its lifespan and ensuring its safety. By protecting the finish, you can prevent rusting and potential injuries caused by metal finishes exposed to the elements.
Check out your gutters and downspouts
Leaves and debris can accumulate in this area, posing a potential hazard. Improper drainage can lead to home damage. Exercise caution when inspecting the area to avoid ladder-related injuries while taking protective measures for your house.
Safely store your lawn mower
After the last mow of the year, it’s important to properly store the mower and edger to prevent any damage. To do this, follow these safety precautions: Add fuel stabilizer to the tank and run the mower to distribute it through the system. Allow the engine to cool, then siphon excess gas into a clean can. Restart the mower and run it until it stops, repeating until the engine no longer starts and the fuel lines are empty. This will prevent stale gas from gumming up the carburetor and rust from forming.
Test for Fire Safety
National Fire Prevention Week is held in October and serves as a reminder to test home fire prevention systems. According to the National Fire Prevention Association, firefighters respond to an average of one house fire every 86 seconds. It is important to check smoke detector batteries, test fire extinguishers, review fire escape plans with family, and consider adding a sprinkler system to ensure preparedness.
Clean out the fireplace
It is important to be aware of the dangers of a buildup of creosote in your fireplace. This can lead to various health issues such as breathing problems, disorientation, and dizziness. In more severe cases, it can even cause damage to vital organs. To prevent these risks, it is recommended to have a professional chimney sweep inspect and remove creosote annually. Additionally, they can also inspect the outside of the chimney to ensure its proper functioning.
Visit our blog every week for more real estate advice and local information about Council Bluffs and surrounding areas. Does your current home still suit the needs of your family? Maybe it’s time to upsize into something that fits your growing needs, or downsize to something more suitable? If you’re ready to make a move, let’s be sure to connect. You can contact me at 402-981-6999 or email me at [email protected]