Fall Checklists - Things we know we have to do but would rather not

Even though I love this time of year I dread the calls I need to make.  It's not that I don't LOVE spending money but this isn't the kind of money I get excited about spending.  Fall is the best time of year to get your house ready for winter.  Small things can make a huge difference and in the long run save you money.  Here's a checklist of things to do in order to get your home ready for a long winter's nap:

1)  Check the Roof:  Look for cracks, curls or missing shingles.  Make sure the flashing around your chimney is secure.  This will prevent leaking and allowing moisture to seep in.

2)  Clean Gutters:  Gutters can easily be filled with leaves, twigs and other debris that will eventually spill over the side causing problems such as seepage through your roof shingles, siding or foundation allowing water into your house. 

3) Shutting off all outside water spigots:  People always forget this...pipes can burst when water expands causing major water problems in your house.  Avoid this by shutting off all valves inside the house connecting the water to the spigots outside.  Let the spigot drain completely, empty all water in hoses and shut tight for the winter.

4) Chimney:  Build up in your chimney can cause chimney fires and carbon monoxide poison and is very dangerous especially if you use your fireplace/wood burning stove all the time.  Call a reputable Chimney Cleaner!

5)  Wood Piles:  Keep all firewood away from your house.  Carpenter ants and Termites LOVE to munch on them all winter long especially if the weather is warm enough.

6)  Furnace Maintenance:  I like to call someone in every other year to give a once over.  PSE&G offers a worry free plan that can include maintenance of your furnace.  At the very least change your air filters monthly.  Dirty air filters reduces the flow of heat and air and could lead to costly repairs.

There it is.....and you thought with the extra money maybe a nice new outfit from JCrew?  Trust me, you won't look as good if your home isn't treating you so good.  Stay tune...tomorrow Harvest of Fall Ideas for decorating your home!