How to Prepare Your Sonoma County Home for the Fall and Winter Months
The summer heat is starting to subside here in Sonoma County, at least before the typical little heatwave that strikes in at some point in October, which means that fall is on its way. It won’t be long before the pumpkin spice, leaf piles, and inevitably holiday decorations start to appear. Before all of that, though, it’s the best time to prepare your home for the (hopefully) wet and cold seasons!
Here’s seven things you can do around your home now that can prepare your home to weather the weather and fall and beyond!
1. Clean Gutters of Leaves and Debris
This small task can prevent some big problems when the rain hits! Gutter clogs can redirect water where it shouldn’t go, which could result in roof damage, foundation problems, and destroyed landscaping. Keep the water flowing in the right direction — away from your home!
While you are up on the ladder, check the roof for any damaged shingles, flashing, or vents.
2. Service Your Furnace
Your furnace will be your best friend through the cold, winter months. Get it professionally inspected and serviced to identify any problems before they break the entire system down and become more costly to repair. At the very least, now’s the time to replace that old, gross furnace filter to keep the air clean!
3. Seal Your Windows and Doors to Keep the Cold Out and Warmth In
Inspect the seals of your doors and windows for damaged weatherstripping and caulking. Sealing any place for the heat to escape and the cold to intrude will help give your furnace — and energy bill — a break.
While you’re at it, clean your windows and be sure to let the light in during the sunny days to get more natural heat in your home.
4. General Safety Check-Up
Replace the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, make a fire escape plan, and put together an emergency preparedness kit. Find your fire extinguishers and make sure they are still fully functional. Having flashlights with fresh batteries, candles, and a supply of non-perishable food and bottled water is also a must! It’s not season-specific, but always a good idea to do!
5. Clean Your Chimney and Fireplace
While fireplaces don’t get as much use in Sonoma County with plenty of justified fire restrictions, it’s always a great idea to get your chimney professionally inspected for damage and clogs. Having the flue clear and the chimney swept will prevent fires and help stabilize your home’s temperature.
6. Prepare Your Landscaping
Overgrown trees and dead limbs are prime dangers in winter storms. Check the health of all your trees and trim the branches that are dead or pose a danger to your structure or family. Heavy rains and wind can easily knock a branch or tree over and cause costly damage.
7. Fix concrete and asphalt cracks
Cracks in your driveway or walkways can get much worse in the winter months as they fill with water and freeze overnight, expanding and deepening the crack in the process. Now is the time to repair those pesky cracks by filling them in or having the slabs replaced.
Contact Petaluma’s Dream Team Realtors for help Preparing Your Home for the Fall Season
Fall is one of our favorite times of year in Petaluma and all-around Sonoma County. We can’t wait to enjoy the fall festivities and take in the sights of leaves changing from a winery balcony. We even love a brief whiff of the Sonoma Aroma! However, now is the best time to get your home in tip-top shape for whatever winter throws our way!
If you have questions about what else you can do to get your home ready, or have general questions about your home, neighborhood, and area, we’re here to help with a depth of knowledge and even deeper connections to the services that will get the job done! Don’t hesitate to reach out to ask about anything!