It is the time of year where summer fades into fall, shades of green turn auburn and warm temperatures are fewer and farther between. For homeowners in Ottawa, fall is a crucial time to prepare your home for the extreme winter’s temperatures and many, many months of snow and cold wind. To help brace your home for the coming cold, we’ve compiled a list of fall home maintenance tips to make sure you, your family and your home are ready for the winter months. As always, Filoso Contracting is happy to assist you with any home maintenance or renovations listed below.

Insulate Your Attic

A properly insulated attic is a happy attic. When your attic is insulated effectively, it keeps warm air inside and colder air out. Your furnace also does not have to work overtime to heat your home in the cooler months. A properly insulated attic also benefits you in the summer months too! And we all know that a properly functioning furnace means a reduction in hydro or gas bills! Before winter sets in, have your attic insulation checked out by your contracting team.

Additionally, make sure to check that your attic vents are working properly and are not blocked by insulation. Covered vents may results in ice dams on your roof, which can eventually lead to water damage on your walls, ceilings and insulation.

Update Windows and Doors

It is no secret that energy efficient windows help you save big on heating bills. Investing in smart windows will save you money in the long run. Thermal glass windows keep warm air out in the summer and cold air out in the winter. Energy efficient windows are the best investment in your family’s comfort, while reducing your monthly heating costs.

It is also important to check the seals and caulking on all of your windows and doors, including your garage door. Run your fingers along the edges and if you can feel cool air, then your seal is broken.

Trim Your Trees

Heavy snow and ice throughout the winter months can put a strain on trees in your yard. This fall, take the time to trim your tree limbs, especially those close to your house and roof, or power lines. With the extra weight of added snow and ice or with the threat of winter storms, tree limbs can break and damage your home. Take preventative measures by eliminating this risk!

Seal Your Deck and Patio

An important fall home maintenance project that many homeowners aren’t aware of concerns their deck and patio. Every winter, extreme weather damages decks and patios. Below freezing temperatures unfortunately cause wood and concrete to expand. As a result, wooden decks splinter and concrete patios spall. Avoid damage by applying sealant to your decks and patios. Come summertime, when your deck still looks new, you will be glad you were prepared for winter!

Empty Gutters

Autumn leaves are inarguably beautiful, but they can cause severe problems in your home’s gutters. If not removed in a timely manner, fallen leaves can clog your gutters and trap rain water. When the temperature drops, this water freezes, expands and can put extra weight on your eavestrough and worse, destroy your home’s foundation. This damage is costly. It is important to make sure to clear your gutters and downspouts and check that they slope properly away from your property to allow water to drain. You can watch a fun video on how to remove unwanted buildup in your gutters here.

Filoso Contracting is Here For Your Fall Home Maintenance Needs

Sometimes, even when we prepare for the worst, the worst happens anyway. If your home suffers unforeseen problems that require immediate attention, such as a flooded basement, leaky roof or weather-related issues, contact our team to take advantage of our disaster recovery services. We have your back.

Now bring on the fall home maintenance to-do list and bring on the cooler temperatures!