Atlanta Patch: 5 Ways to Patch Up Your Home for Fall
As the leaves begin to turn and the temperatures start to drop, it's time to start thinking about patching up your home for fall. Here are 5 easy ways to do it:
- Inspect your roof. Look for any missing or damaged shingles, and repair them as needed. You can also check for leaks by spraying water on the roof with a garden hose.
- Clean your gutters. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and damage your roof, so it's important to clean them out regularly.
- Seal your windows and doors. Caulk and weatherstripping around windows and doors can help to keep out drafts and cold air.
- Insulate your attic. Adding insulation to your attic can help to keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
- Check your heating system. Have your heating system inspected and serviced by a qualified technician before the cold weather hits.
By following these simple steps, you can help to keep your home warm and comfortable all fall and winter long.
How to Inspect Your Roof
- Look for missing or damaged shingles. Shingles can be damaged by wind, hail, or falling branches. If you find any missing or damaged shingles, replace them as soon as possible.
- Check for leaks. You can check for leaks by spraying water on the roof with a garden hose. If you see any water leaking through the roof, you'll need to repair the leak as soon as possible.
- Inspect the flashing. Flashing is the metal material that is used to seal the joints around chimneys, skylights, and other roof protrusions. Flashing can become damaged over time, so it's important to inspect it regularly and repair any damage as needed.
How to Clean Your Gutters
- Remove any debris from the gutters. You can do this by hand or with a gutter scoop.
- Flush the gutters with water. Use a garden hose to flush the gutters and remove any remaining debris.
- Inspect the gutters for damage. Look for any holes or cracks in the gutters. If you find any damage, repair it as soon as possible.
How to Seal Your Windows and Doors
- Caulk around the windows and doors. Caulk is a type of sealant that can be used to fill in gaps around windows and doors. Caulk helps to keep out drafts and cold air.
- Weatherstrip around the windows and doors. Weatherstripping is a type of seal that can be used to fill in gaps around windows and doors. Weatherstripping helps to keep out drafts and cold air.
How to Insulate Your Attic
- Add insulation to the attic floor. You can add insulation to the attic floor by rolling out insulation batts or blowing in loose-fill insulation.
- Insulate the attic walls. You can insulate the attic walls by adding insulation batts or spray foam insulation.
- Seal any air leaks. Air leaks can allow cold air to enter your attic, so it's important to seal any air leaks that you find.
How to Check Your Heating System
- Check the air filter. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and cause your heating system to work less efficiently. Change the air filter every month or two.
- Inspect the heating system. Look for any loose wires or connections. If you find any loose wires or connections, tighten them.
- Test the heating system. Turn on the heating system and make sure that it is working properly.
By following these simple tips, you can help to keep your home warm and comfortable all fall and winter long.