Autumn is a beautiful season in New Zealand, but it also marks the start of cooler weather and the beginning of the end of summer. With the arrival of autumn comes the need for some maintenance around the house to ensure that everything is in good working order and ready for the winter months ahead. In this blog post, we will discuss some tips for autumn maintenance for New Zealand homes.
- Inspect Your Roof
Autumn is a great time to inspect your roof for any damage that may have occurred during the summer months. Check for loose or missing tiles, rusted or damaged flashing, and signs of wear and tear. Addressing any issues before the winter months arrive will help prevent leaks and water damage.
- Check Your Gutters and Downpipes
Autumn is a season of falling leaves, so it’s important to check your gutters and downpipes for any blockages. Clearing out any debris will help prevent water from backing up and overflowing, causing potential damage to your roof and walls.
- Service Your Heating System
As the weather starts to cool down, it’s important to make sure your heating system is in good working order. Have a professional service your furnace or heat pump to ensure it’s operating efficiently and safely. It’s also a good time to change the filters and test your thermostat.
- Seal Your Windows and Doors
Drafty windows and doors can make your home feel cold and uncomfortable during the winter months. Check for any gaps or cracks and seal them with weather stripping or caulking to keep the heat inside and save on energy bills.
- Clean Your Chimney
If you have a fireplace, autumn is the time to clean your chimney. Have a professional inspect and clean your chimney to remove any built-up soot or debris that could cause a fire hazard. There are DIY chimney kits you can purchase from your local hardware store if you’re handy and confident to do this yourself. Please be careful when working from heights. This will ensure that your fireplace is safe to use during the winter months.
- Prepare Your Garden
Autumn is a great time to prepare your garden for the winter months. Clean up any fallen leaves, trim back any overgrown bushes or trees, and plant winter vegetables if desired. It’s also a good time to fertilize your lawn to promote healthy growth next spring.
- Check Your Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Finally, it’s important to make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are in good working order. Replace the batteries if necessary and test the detectors to ensure they are functioning properly. This will give you peace of mind knowing that your home is protected in case of a fire or gas leak.
Autumn is a great time to tackle some maintenance tasks around your home to ensure everything is in good working order and ready for the winter months ahead. By following these tips, you’ll be able to stay warm and comfortable all winter long while also saving on energy bills and protecting your home from potential damage.
If the maintenance on your home is getting a bit much for you, it may also be time to call in your local real estate agent to chat about your options.