Fall home maintenance

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Checklist:Fall home maintenance

Winter is hard on homes and frozen pipes and other winter problems can be expensive to fix. But with a little preventive maintenance, you can save your house -- and your wallet -- from the worst of the upcoming season. Use our checklist as a guide:

	Roof. Climb a sturdy ladder and visually inspect your roof for missing or broken shingles. Loose shingles that are in good shape can be nailed down again and re-adhered with a bit of silicone. Apply caulking or cement to other cracks and openings. Check the flashing around vents, skylights and chimneys. If the roof has major problems or you have safety concerns, call a professional roofer.
	Chimney. A cap on your chimney will prevent debris, birds and small animals from falling in. Birds in particular pose a hazard -- they can be knocked unconscious by exhaust fumes and block the chimney, possibly leading to a deadly carbon monoxide build-up. A clog can also prevent smoke from exiting or allow heat to escape. Check around the outside of the chimney for cracks in the mortar. Then get a flashlight and examine the inside for creosote, a black, scaly build-up that can lead to chimney fires if not removed regularly. A qualified chimney sweep should clean the chimney once a year if fireplaces are in active use. Make sure the sweep is certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) Certified Chimney Sweep Program.
	Gutters. Clogged gutters can cause water damage inside the house, and the added weight of debris and ice can tear them loose. Clear out the leaves and muck yourself using a spade and hose, or hire someone to help. Make sure the downspout is also clear.
	Siding. Clean the siding and look for any cracks or separations. Pay special attention to places where wood meets masonry. Reseal with caulk. If the paint is blistering, peeling or chalking, touch up minor problems or contact a contractor for help.
	Windows and doors. Repair or replace damaged weather stripping to prevent drafts and heat loss. Caulk cracks or gaps around edges before the cold weather sets in, as most caulking needs to be applied when it's warm. If you have storm windows, wash and remove screens, then install the storms. Make sure all windows and doors close tightly. Check the bottom of your garage door -- if the weather stripping is damaged, snow and ice can warp the door or interfere with the safety device. If your door doesn't rest fully on the ground, air or animals can find a way inside.
	Outside taps. Unless they are frost-proof, drain and turn off taps and external pipes to prevent bursting due to water expansion.
	General exterior. Store outdoor furniture, protect vulnerable plants or bring them indoors, and trim any trees or shrubs that are diseased or too close to the house. Drain and store hoses and lawnmowers. Now take a walk around the house. Make sure the air vents are not blocked by leaves or snow. Clear any leaves or debris from the side of the house and basement window wells. Once it's clear, check the foundation for cracks and leaks. This can indicate serious problems that require professional attention. If you have a crawlspace, make sure it is clear of water, mold and animals. If your air conditioner fits into a window, remove it -- otherwise, cover it. You may wish to seal your driveway, sidewalk, patio and other paved surfaces to keep water and salt from damaging them. To prevent basement flooding, ensure the grading of the ground drains water away from the house.

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