Your home: a practical guide to the work to be done this fall

Your home: a practical guide to the work to be done this fall

Maintain the interior
Particular attention must be paid to work to prevent fires and water damage and to maintain the energy efficiency of your home.
Pipes and water heaters
Check that the pipes under your sinks and the floor around the toilet bowl, washing machine, dishwasher, water cooler and water heater are completely dry. Also make sure the washer and dishwasher supply hoses are in good condition and that there are no leaks. Did you know that a water heater that is reaching the end of its life can cause serious damage? If yours is getting old, don't wait for a leak to change it. Prevention can save you a lot of trouble.
Also, consider installing water leak detection systems connected to a shut-off valve. Placed near the main plumbing fixtures in the house, they automatically shut off the valve and the water inlet when a leak is detected. Ask your plumber for more information.
Sealing of doors and windows
Accumulations of rain, snow and ice promote water infiltration. Well-insulated windows and doors, This link will open in a new window. can help prevent such infiltration. Check the seals around your windows and doors and, if necessary, replace the weatherstripping or correct the caulk. This maintenance can also help reduce your energy bill.
Heater and fireplace
Make sure your heater is working well. Have it inspected by a specialist if you have the slightest doubt, for example if you hear a suspicious noise or if its performance leaves something to be desired.
If you have a wood-burning appliance, such as a fireplace or a wood-burning stove, the chimney should be swept at least once a year. This is to prevent chimney fires caused by creosote buildup as well as carbon monoxide poisoning caused by blockages.
Humidity
Humidifiers are very useful for making the air in our homes less dry and more pleasant in winter. However, they must be cleaned properly. This link will open in a new window. to prevent bacteria and mold from growing.
Ventilation
The direction of rotation of the blades of your ceiling fan should be reversed to turn clockwise. This helps create an upward movement of air and better redistribute the hot air that collects on the ceiling. This simple gesture can help reduce your heating bill during the cold season.
Smoke and CO alarms
Smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms can save your life. Hence the importance of maintaining them well. Make sure they are working well, clean them and replace the batteries once a year. Or, to avoid replacing your batteries every year, install alarms with a lifespan of 10 years.
Finally, tidy up the cellar to the attic, throwing out any extras, such as outdated chemicals or household products. Above all, dispose of them responsibly, This link will open in a new window.
Maintain the exterior
A neat exterior not only adds aesthetic value to your home, it can also prevent costly damage and worry.
Foundations
Thoroughly inspect the foundation inside and out for possible problems and to avoid any damage from seepage. Have a professional inspect cracks larger than 0.3 cm in width as well as any signs of efflorescence (whitish deposits), infiltration or localized moisture that may signify a foundation drain malfunction. (eg: blocked drain).
Roofing
Make a visual inspection of your roof, This link will open in a new window. to make sure no shingles are missing and all are secure. Also make sure that the seals around the openings on the roof (chimney, skylight, vent) are in good condition to prevent infiltration. If necessary, have your roof evaluated by a professional.
Gutters
Check your gutters and downspouts, because if they are blocked, they will not be able to play their role to keep rainwater away from the house. The water could then overflow on your property and cause infiltration into your basement. The slope of the land around your house should also help carry runoff away from the foundation.