As fall endures and we creep toward winter, it’s important for homeowners to prepare for the seasonal changes and cold months ahead to avoid costly damage to your home.  At Re-Bath we understand how pleasant the Arkansas fall can be, but we also understand how quickly the climate can change around here and don’t want you to be unprepared when the thermometer drops.

Just consult this simple checklist to keep your utility bills down and protect your home this season:

Examine your roof and gutter for debris.

Clean gutters and downspouts frequently to prevent build up, and be sure to check that water drains properly and doesn’t pool, which can cause damage to foundations, driveways and walkways.

Check your windows and doors for drafts.

The majority of conditioned air in your home is lost through windows and doors, so be sure to inspect and repair any damaged window or doorframes, and install caulking or weather stripping around windows and doors to prevent draft. Also, remember to change summer screens to cool weather storm windows and doors.

Fix any leaky faucets or pipes now.

Any time or money spent right now will be considerably less than fixing a broken pipe in the dead of winter. Ensure that pipes, as well as the wall cavities in which they reside, are well insulated to prevent any freezing or bursting, but be sure you know how to locate and turn off the water shut-off valve in case pipes do freeze.

Prepare your fireplace and chimney.

Discard any old ashes and ensure the damper is open to allow air to move freely through the chimney, and be sure to test the fireplace flue for a tight seal when closed. For safety purposes, consider installing a smoke/carbon monoxide detector near the fireplace or furnace.

Take care of landscaping and yard needs.

Although grass appears to stop growing during the winter, the roots are actually growing deeper to prepare for winter, so be sure to fertilize and reseed your yard.  Also, be sure to check your irrigation system and fix any broken heads before the cold weather sets in.