We’re nearing the middle of the fall season in New Jersey and metropolitan New York. Before you know it, the crisp air will give way to cold mornings and the threat of snow and ice. If you haven’t done it already, it’s time to get your maintenance checklist out and inspect your home’s readiness for the seasonal change. Below you’ll find five things our Renewal by Andersen replacement window team recommends to get your ready for what’s coming soon.
While this isn’t a comprehensive maintenance check list, we believe these are some of the most important things you can do to prepare for colder weather.
Take the time to ensure your faucets, valves and drains are protected. That means shutting off the water – including sprinkler systems and other outdoor water sources. Make sure you drain hoses, pipes and summertime storage tanks. Then, store hoses, valves, etc. in a dry place, protected from the elements. Wrap above ground faucets and pipes with insulation.
In spring, make a second inspection after you turn the water back on. Call in a plumber if you find any leaks. It is cheaper to fix a problem before it becomes a huge emergency – lower labor costs and often, fewer replacement parts to buy.
Cold weather means you’ll be spending more time indoors. Small rodents and insects will also be looking for a warm, comfy place to overwinter. Walk around your home looking for cracks, gaps and holes in the building envelop where uninvited guests may crawl in. This includes a thorough inspection of each window.
For openings other than around windows, stuff the openings with steel wool or apply foam spray. If you find insect colonies or rodent signs, call a professional exterminator. Get rid of the problem before the cold weather exodus begins in earnest.
Extensive window damage may indicate you need to replace one or more home windows. This is a great time to schedule a replacement window consultant to inspect your windows. What looks like a minor issue now may lead to very expensive damage if rain and snow get inside the walls unnoticed over the winter.
Window air conditioners are a wonderful invention, but you won’t be needing them for the next several months, so it is imperative that you either cover or remove the units to ensure your heated air doesn’t sneak out around or through the unit while not in use.
If you have a wood-burning heating appliance, this is the time to get your stash of wood stacked and secured. Protect against termite infestation by building an elevated wood pile at least 25 feet from your home. If you see any evidence of insect infestation, ask a professional how to control the pests. Inspect all chimneys and flues before cold weather arrives.
Check your interior and exterior spaces for safety hazards that may cause a fall. Make sure:
If your inspection reveals windows damage, we invite you to fill in the short form on this page or dial (866) 609-5033 to schedule a private, no-obligation inspection with a Renewal by Andersen replacement window consultant in your New Jersey or New York Metro neighborhood today.
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