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Homeowner's Guide
To Fall Maintenance
As the leaves change, so do the needs of your home. Fall is the perfect time to prepare your home for the colder months ahead. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the finer details of how to maintain your home during the fall season.
Inspect and Clean Gutters
Why: Clogged gutters can cause leaks, mold, and foundation damage.
How: Remove debris with a gutter scoop or high-powered hose nozzle attachment. Dispose of debris properly.
When: Early fall before the heavy rainfalls.
Tip: Consider installing mesh guards over your gutters to keep debris out.
Preferred Vendor: Gutter Cleaning by NJ Gutter and Window Cleaning
Check and Repair Roofing
Why: Missing shingles, cracks, and compromised flashing can cause roof leaks and lead to serious damage.
How: Use roofing cement to repair and replace missing and damaged shingles, and reseal any cracks in the caulking or compromised flashing.
When: During early fall before the colder climate arrives.
Tip: Preferred Vendor: Roof Repair by Jersey Roofing LLC
Seal Windows and Doors
Why: Gaps in windows and doors cause drafts and increase heating bills.
How: Use weatherstripping for gaps between moving parts and caulking for stationary points. Don't forget to seal gaps around the mailbox and cutouts for pipes and wires.
When: Before the colder weather arrives in late fall.
HVAC System Maintenance
Replace Air Filters: Dirty filters restrict airflow and reduce efficiency. Replace the filters as recommended.
Clean the Ducts: Ducts can harbor dust, dirt, and other harmful pollutants. Use a specialized vacuum attachment and brush to clean them out.
Call in a Pro: Consider hiring a professional to perform a thorough maintenance checkup, especially on units over 5 Years old.
Tip: Preferred Vendor: HVAC Maintenance and Repair by Jim Moscone Plumbing and Heating
Clean and Store or Cover Outdoor Furniture
Why: Snow and Ice from the winter can cause damage to outdoor furniture.
How: Start by cleaning your furniture off. Use a scrub brush and mild soap to clean outdoor furniture. Rinse and let it dry completely before storing it in a dry, sheltered location. Then, store or cover your furniture with heavy durable covers.
When: As soon as the weather starts to get a bit brisk (usually around Halloween)
Tip: Consider purchasing covers for your outdoor furniture to shield it from harsh weather. Here are some ones we recommend.
Prune Trees and Trim Landscaping
Why: Overgrown trees and shrubs can cause damage during fall storms, and fallen leaves can accumulate, ruining your home's curb appeal.
How: Use pruning shears to trim overhanging branches, and a rake to collect fallen leaves. Cut away any dead or diseased branches on trees.
When: During early fall before the leaves start to fall.
Tip: Preferred Vendor: Tree Trimming by A & H Tree Specialists
Prepare the Fireplace
Why: Fireplaces and chimneys can be a hazard if not properly maintained or inspected, posing a risk of fire or carbon monoxide poisoning.
How: Inspect chimneys and fireboxes for creosote buildup, blockages, or damage.
When: During early fall.
Tip: Consider hiring a professional chimney sweep to do a safety check. Preferred Vendor: Chimney Sweep by Countryside Chimney
Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Why: Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors can save your life in the event of a fire or gas leak.
How: Test each unit by pressing the test button, and replace the batteries as needed.
When: At least twice a year, in fall and spring.
Clean and Inspect the Dryer Vent
Why: A clogged dryer vent can cause poor performance, energy inefficiencies, and fire hazards.
How: Remove the lint screen and clean it thoroughly. Use a lint brush and vacuum to clean the dryer exhaust vent, ductwork, and exterior hood.
When: At least once a year, or more often if the dryer is used frequently.
Winterize Outdoor Plumbing
Shut off outdoor watering systems: Turn off valves and open any drain valves to release water. Insulate outdoor spigots with covers.
Disconnect Garden Hoses: Drain and store them indoors to prevent damage.
Tip: Air pressure blasting by a pro can remove water from the pipes and prevent freezing and bursting. Preferred Vendor: Smiley Drain Cleaning
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3 Cold Hard Truths for Sellers
First impressions matter. A recent study found that 80 percent of potential buyers know if a home is right for them as soon as they step inside.
The longer your home is on the market the lower the sales price. That’s because if your home is on the market for a while, buyers assume that the sale price is overpriced and make lower offers.
The longer the buyer delays an offer the lower the offer price. That’s natural because they are unsure if they want to make the offer and/or are hedging their bets between your property and another
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82 N. Summit Street, Tenafly NJ 07670
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