- Check for drafts. Feel for drafts around the edges of windows and doors. A good tip is to use a lighted candle and if the flame flickers, there’s most likely a draft. If necessary, replace seals and repair any gaps around windows and door frames.
- Do a roof check. You should be able to do at least a visual inspection of the roof from the ground. Look for missing, damaged, or loose tiles.
- Check the chimney and fireplace. If you have a wood fireplace and use it often, have your chimney cleaned and inspected by a professional.
- Clean the gutters. Clean the gutters, remove leaves, nests, and debris from gutters and check for leaks.
- Check water drainage. Rainwater downspouts need to be clear of obstructions and direct water away from foundations, walkways, and driveways. Add extensions to downspouts if necessary.
- Inspect trees. Check for damaged limbs that may break or that are too close to your home.
- Bring in flowerpots. If you keep plants or flower in pots, bring them inside. If you replace plants every year, then now is the time to empty, clean, dry pots and put away for next spring.
- Plant bulbs. If you plant bulbs for spring, now’s the time to get them in the ground.
- Leaf removal. Get ahead of the leaves before they build up and rake and remove leaves from the garden. Put into a compost pile if you have one or bag them and take them to your local tip.
- Motion sensor lights invest in you for the dark winter nights by placing motion sensor lights about front doors, garages and garden paths
Photo by Chris Lawton
