Freezing Pipes: Prevent Them!

Freezing temps are here and with that comes freezing pipes! Here are some simple steps you can take to help prevent freezing pipes. Take a moment to detach and store all outdoor hoses. The water left in hoses will freeze and expand. Also, it’s a way to ensure the water faucet is turned off. Once you have removed all hoses, install faucet covers. Insulated faucet covers cost only a few dollars and take moments to install.  Consumer reports offers some detailed information to prevent freezing pipes. 

Prevent freezing pipes

Exterior faucets and pipes are not the only thing at risk during a freeze. Interior pipes should also be protected. If you have a crawl space that gives you access to pipes, make sure they are covered with insulation. To protect bathroom and kitchens, leave the cold water on at a slight drip. You can also leave the cabinet doors open to allow warmer air to circulate. Taking steps now will prevent costly damage and repairs that happen when pipes freeze. You’ll be glad you did it!

Looking for more home maintenance tips? Click here for more.  Have questions about real estate? Get in touch with us, we’re happy to answer any questions you may have.

Clean Your Fireplace

Is it time to clean your fireplace? Autumn’s colder weather evokes thoughts of a cozy fire on a cold evening. Before Winter arrives, check your fireplace and chimney for damage & hazards. Make sure to clean your fireplace, flue and chimney to prevent any unwanted and potentially disastrous chimney fires. Here are some FAQ’s from the Chimney Safety Institute

 

Clean Your Fireplace

Do you have a gas fireplace? Many people assume that a gas fireplace doesn’t require regular cleaning. However, proper cleaning and maintenance will ensure that your gas fireplace burns efficiently. Additionally, cleaning will help prevent poisonous carbon monoxide from entering your home. Make sure to schedule an annual, professional inspection to check wiring and gaskets.

There is also some cleaning you can do yourself. Clean and remove dust and debris monthly to prevent dust and dirt from harming mechanisms. With the gas turned off, you can carefully vacuum the components. Many gas fireplaces have glass doors that can become cloudy from the combustion process. Regular cleaning will help prevent the glass from becoming permanently etched.

Are you looking for more home maintenance tips? Then Click here. Do you have questions about the current real estate market? Give us a call, we’re happy to answer any questions you have.

Gutters and Downspouts Cleaning

With summer almost over and fall rain on the way; now is the time to clean and inspect your gutters and downspouts. Make sure to flush them with a hose to ensure they are draining properly. Then, find and seal all leaks, especially at the joints. If you have damaged or rusted sections, consider having those replaced by a professional. Taking this step each fall will help to protect your roof, eaves, and foundation from water damage.
Click for a step-by-step from Lowe’s

Clean gutters and downspouts

Want to avoid cleaning your gutters and downspouts every year? There are a number of things you can do. You can always hire a professional to clean your gutters annually or bi-annually. Alternatively, there are a number of products that can help including Micro Mesh, LeafGuard and screens. However, some of these products perform better than others. Make sure to research and read reviews to discover which product is best for you.

If you have any questions regarding listing, home values, or need referrals to lenders or contractors, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We are always available to answer any questions you may have about buying, selling or the real estate market in general.

Home Sellers: Paint No-No’s

Home sellers: if you are thinking about selling your home, be careful with your paint. Here’s a great tip from 🧔 Bob Vila  regarding paint 🎨 colors that could scare 😨 your buyers away! We’ve included a graphic with the colors and brief description. Paint No-No’s for Home Sellers: To …

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