Lets go over our top 10 tips to keep your home Pristine through the Fall and Winter this year! Virginia homes take a beating throughout the year and to maintain value it is important we keep them clean and taken care of. From the heat and humidity that cause algae and dirt to grow on siding and roofs and push AC units to work extra hard, to the rain that put all the gunk into your backyard pools, we’ve got the ultimate end of summer home maintenance list to get you on track for fall and winter!
Did you know, The National Association of Realtors stated that pressure washing your home can add 10-15,000 dollars in value. Just a thought in case you are planning on selling this fall!
1.Clean your gutters. This is something that you should do more often than not. But before winter begins, you want all of the debris that has collected in your gutters so they don’t become impacted and dam the water into place. If your gutters are full once winter comes, that standing water will freeze, which in turns makes more water build up and freeze. Water is heavy, and will put an extra strain on the gutters causing them to sag or otherwise fall out of alignment.
2.Clean your roof. You probably don’t need to replace your roof just yet. But if it is growing mold and algae you should definitely get it cleaned before it causes enough damage that it will have to be replaced. Fall and Winter weather and temperatures will only cause a dirty roof to deteriorate further, so clean it before the seasons change!
3.Wash your siding. Pressure washing your house before the winter helps keep your home efficient. Algae, mildew and mold need food and energy to survive and they will begin to break down your home for energy. Your home will also be ready for holiday decorating!
4.Clean your deck. Deck cleaning and maintenance will forestall repairs and protect your investment. Like your siding and roof, cleaning before fall and winter means you’ll keep your deck protected from the elements and intensity of our colder months.
5.Clean the inside of your fireplace, yes even if it is gas. Gas fireplace chimneys should be inspected and cleaned annually. There will not be any soot or creosote in the chimney since you are not burning wood, but you may find bird nests that need to be removed.
6.Check your windows for gusts. Go through your home and open windows to ensure the seal and caulking around the window frame is in good condition. This will help keep your home from losing heat in the winter.
7.Clean out and close your pool. Backyard pools are popular in Virginia! Some are in-ground, some are above, some are vinyl and easy to pack up, some even have salt water! No matter which kind you may have, it is always best to close up your pool properly so it does not encounter any damage from the colder months. Pools can also pose a physical threat if they are not closed and covered properly.
8.Prepare your landscaping. Southern Winds Landscaping can make sure any dead branches are removed so they don’t cause problems during the fall and winter. They can also make sure that you have the right bulbs planted for when spring returns! Visit them at http://southernwindlandscaping.com/
9.Have your HVAC inspected by Shepherds Heating and Air! They can clean out ducts, and perform any maintenance or repairs that may be needed. No one wants to find out that their heat won’t turn on when the cold temperatures hit! Visit them at https://www.spotsylvaniahvacservice.com/
10.Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. According to the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), smoke detectors should be tested at least once a month and batteries should be replaced at least once or twice a year.
When you are ready to get your home ready for Fall and Winter in Virginia, Contact us for your free, no obligation pressure washing quote!
