Fall is an important time of the year for exterior home maintenance and perhaps this year even more so than usual. With fire season seemingly starting earlier, lasting longer and with more damage, we need to do more than a quick once over on our homes and yards.
- Fire Safety: It is important to contact your local fire district and your insurance carrier to follow their guidelines which are likely to include cleaning debris from the roof and gutter. Eliminating anything that can be fuel or catch on fire by just a burning ember. Clear access to egress routes around the house.
- Check the roof, gutters, and drainage systems. Make sure they are clear of debris and that soil is graded away from the house. Have a roof inspection done or survey the roof yourself. Look for loose roofing material and flashings. Look for nails that have popped up.
- Inspect the siding of your house. Securely fasten any loose siding, seal any cracks, and paint/stain any bare wood. Also, check the weather stripping around doors and windows.
- Review your foundation, including vent screens and access points. Make sure you are not setting up an Airbnb for any rodents or neighborhood felines. Secure all wire vents. Fill in any holes bigger than a dime. And make sure access doors are secured.
- Put away patio furniture, cover your BBQ, and secure pool equipment. Check the pool cover and replace it if necessary.
