With Thanksgiving just a few days away, we have so much to be thankful for. We are thankful that we were spared from hurricanes this year. We are thankful that we live in a community that supplies us with an abundance of things to do, people to see and places to go. We are thankful for sweater weather! We are thankful for friendships old and new.
As our winter friends and family return to their homes in Citrus County, we realize that it is time to break out the fall checklist of things to do around the house.
Exterior
• Trim tree branches and vegetation near the roof.
• Check roof, siding and the foundation for damage.
• Check the chimney for loose bricks and missing mortar.
• Clean the gutters and downspouts.
• Make sure water doesn’t pool around the foundation.
• Seal any gaps and holes that could provide access for animals.
• Replace loose or missing caulking around windows and doors.
• Fertilize and reseed lawn.
• Mulch plant beds.
• For freeze warnings, shut off exterior faucets and irrigation
• Check decks and porches for any loose boards, cracks and rot.
• Test your generator.
• Make sure your pest control is up to date.
• Check outside lighting for burned out bulbs and replace.
• Inspect pool for any leaks and set pump for nighttime.
Interior
• Check the attic and crawl spaces for moisture after wet weather.
• Check caulking around showers, tubs, sinks, and toilets.
• Check faucets and supply valves for leaks or corrosion.
• Inspect the hot water heater for leaks.
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace batteries.
• Check your fire extinguisher and replace if it is out of date.
• Have a professional inspect and clean the chimney
• Hire a professional to “tune-up” your air conditioner and heater.
• Change air filers & remove materials that might block air return.
• Clean your dryer vent.
• Inspect washer hoses for any cracks or leaks.
• Check expiration dates on medications and discard old or expired.
• Clean drapes and blinds.
• Turn your mattress.
• Clean out closets and donate gently used clothing.
• Check kitchen cabinets for signs of pest activity.
• Vacuum and clean your carpets.
By performing these tasks and any others you might think of can help prevent unseen problems throughout the fall and winter. Remember the old saying from Benjamin Franklin – An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!!
On behalf of the staff and membership of the Realtors® Association of Citrus County, I’d like to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving.
About the Author:
Ruth Edwards, serves as the 2019 President of the Realtors® Association of Citrus County. Additionally, she is an active Realtor® with Coldwell Banker Next Generation Realty. Contact Ruth for assistance in buying Citrus County real estate. Either by phone at (352) 586-0115 or by email: ruthedwardsrealtor@outlook.com.
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