Like it or not, winter is on its way, but there’s still plenty of time to complete your fall cleaning checklist before the cold, snowy weather arrives. Here are a few last-minute, pre-winter checks that’ll help make sure your Northern New Jersey home is ready for the winter season.
- Check Gutters and Downspouts
By now, most trees have dropped their leaves, which can create a blockage in your gutters and downspouts. This can result in water damage to your foundation, basement, roofing, siding and trim if not removed. Clogged gutters also increase the risk for the formation of damaging ice dams. Making sure to clean out your gutters and downspouts can help keep moisture out of and away from your home.
- Inspect Windows and Exterior Doors
Chilly drafts can raise your heating bills and make for an unpleasant home environment. Before the cold air sweeps in, check for gaps between your siding, window and door frames. Reapply exterior caulk as needed to keep the elements out and the warm air in. You may also need to install weather stripping around doors and windows to ward off the cold.
- Look For Roof Damage
The last thing you want after a winter snowstorm is for your roof to leak. With winter drawing near, you should make note of any damaged, loose or missing shingles that may let moisture in when the snow begins to melt. If you detect any problems, it’s best to contact New Jersey Siding & Windows to discuss your repair or replacement options.
- Prep Your Deck
Keep your deck looking great for years to come by cleaning it in autumn. Barbecue stains and dirt accumulated during the summer can cause your deck to age prematurely. Use a cleaner formulated for your deck’s surfaces to remove dirt, mold, mildew and grime. Topping your deck off with a water-repellant finish can help protect against harsh winter weather conditions.
If you run into any issues with your windows, siding, doors, decking, or roofing during your pre-winter check, call 973-895-1113 to consult with a knowledgeable member of our team.
