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As the Summer season winds down many of us look forward to the cooler temperatures
and fall colors. But we must not forget what is lurking behind those crisp
fall days - old man winter! It is hard to determine what type of winter will
be in store for your region. The wooly worms may know more than the meteorologists
and both know a lot more about predicting the type of winter we are to be
blessed with then me, but regardless of what mother nature brings our way,
it is best to prepare for the worst.
As fall approaches you should inspect the exterior of your home
for openings that could let in cold wind and repair, fill and/or
caulk as needed (or contact your homeowner's association if you
live in a condo for them to make these repairs). Hoses should be
removed from outside faucets and their shut off values should be
closed before the temperatures drop below freezing. Checking and
replacing seals around your windows, garage, and exterior doors
will also help keep the cold out.
Your fall pruning should be completed by winter if possible and
sensitive perennials and roses should be cut back and covered.
Fall is also a great time for you or your homeowner association
to fertilize your lawn and plantings because your plants are actively
storing up nutrients through their roots in anticipation of the
Spring growth surge.
Those homes with wood burning fireplaces need clean chimneys.
An unclean flue is a dangerous situation which if left alone could
easily start a fire which could burn your house down and may even
take a life! Speaking of life, homes sealed up during the heating
season are much more accessible to carbon monoxide build up which
can be lethal. Installing a carbon monoxide detector may save your
own and your loved ones lives.
During those really cold days and nights keep those interior
faucets (especially exterior wall sinks) running at a pencil lead
thin stream along with keeping the vanity doors open for heat access
around the pipes. Insulating the incoming water lines before they
get to the water heater, if they are in a cold area such as a crawl
space, basement, unheated garage, or by an exterior wall, is a
sound preventive measure. Keep emergency supplies (ready to eat
foods, water, battery operated radio, candles, blankets, cards,
etc.) as well as emergency phone numbers on hand for power loss
and/or when weather conditions may find you trapped in your home
for longer then you anticipated.
I hope you have found the above suggestions helpful. There are
many other steps that can be taken to conserve utility usage, make
your home more comfortable, minimize freeze damages and make the
winter season not just bearable but hopefully enjoyable as well.
Your power company and insurance agent are good sources for additional
information regarding preparing for winter. When the snow flies
and the Canadian winds howl, with just a little planning, you will
be as snug as a wooly worm in the tropics in your winter ready
haven you call home.
Matt
Englert, President
R&G Management
Zionsville, IN
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