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Prevent damage to your home and your family by taking a good look at your house before winter. Fall is the best time to repair roofs, walls, stairs and other problem areas.
Begin with checking inside and outside for water leaks. Loose pipes and fittings in the plumbing lines can lead to wood rot, mold and mildew. Roof leaks can eventually ruin the attic or crawl space and ceilings. Drops of water can seep into the home’s wood frames and cause damage over time.
Check outside steps, driveways and walkways for cracks that can become a tripping hazard, especially in wet weather. Check indoor staircases for loose balusters, bannisters, newel posts, handrails and steps. Replace creaking or loose stair boards if necessary. Replace frayed staircase carpeting or broken stair treads.
Check for loose connections in all electrical outlets and power lines to your home. Trim overhanging trees from roofs and power lines to avoid damage from high winds and storms.
Have your chimney professionally swept to avoid debris and creosote buildup that can cause fires. Also check all gas lines for leaks.
Parker Young, Georgia’s disaster repair specialist, recommends that you maintain your home in good condition to avoid unnatural disasters.