It’s remarkable how swiftly we’re approaching the final months of 2023. Fall is on our doorstep, and with it comes the festive hustle and bustle of the holidays. While this season brings joy and a change of pace, it can also be rather stressful, especially for homeowners. And that’s when a handyman comes in to help.
Amidst gift shopping, special events, erratic work schedules, and potential travel plans, you must also fortify your home to brave the elements and inclement weather. The colder, wetter months can take a toll on your house if you haven’t properly prepared!
The key to avoiding unexpected repair bills during this already financially demanding time is to proactively ready your home in the weeks leading up to winter. It might seem like a minor concern—why fix what’s not broken?
However, the cost of addressing emergency repairs tends to far surpass the expense of preventive maintenance. Just as the saying goes, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” prioritizing regular home maintenance and overreacting to problems can save you time, money, and stress.
Additionally, finding professionals available for services during the holiday season can be challenging. Businesses often have reduced hours and extended closures, causing their schedules to fill up rapidly. It’s frustrating to reach out to various handymen only to discover they can’t accommodate your needs right before the holidays. Save yourself the hassle and tackle these tasks ahead of time!
Here are several home upkeep projects to consider before the winter chill sets in:
Winter Projects For Your Handyman
Gutter Cleaning
Embrace the inevitable and clean those gutters. During winter, clogged gutters can pose a serious hazard. Frozen water and debris can cause gutters to break and collapse. This doesn’t just endanger you but can also inflict substantial damage to your home. Spare yourself the cost of gutter repair or replacement by periodically cleaning them throughout the year.
Roof Inspection
While cleaning your gutters, assess the condition of your roof. Damaged, loose, or missing shingles can lead to severe water damage if not addressed promptly. While spring is ideal for roofing work, addressing repairs promptly can save you from costly water damage fixes down the line.
Outdoor Valves and Hoses
Before winter, disconnect garden hoses and turn off exterior valves. This prevents pipes from freezing and bursting during colder months.
Fireplace Maintenance
For those fortunate enough to have fireplaces, a pre-winter cleaning is essential. Contact a chimney sweep to empty and clean your fireplace box and chimney. This ensures safety and prevents smoke inhalation and potential fires.
Water Heater Flushing
Flush your water heater to remove sediment and ensure its efficiency. There’s nothing pleasant about icy cold showers during winter, nor the bill for heater repairs due to neglect.
Insulation for Exposed Pipes
Prevent indoor piping from freezing and bursting by insulating exposed pipes. It’s easier than dealing with frozen pipes in the middle of winter.
Check Detectors
Ensure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning. Cold weather raises the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisoning. Regular inspections are essential, especially as risks increase during colder months.
Repair Damaged Siding
Your home’s exterior siding is its frontline defense against the elements. Address cracks or separations to prevent water, snow, and ice from penetrating, potentially leading to wood rot.
Heating System Inspection
Few things are more uncomfortable than a lack of heat during cold weather. Have your heating system inspected by an HVAC expert in the fall to ensure it’s functioning properly before winter arrives.
Seal Doors and Windows
While not as critical as other tasks, weather-stripping doors and windows keeps cold air out and warmth in. A snug seal enhances comfort and reduces energy costs.
While these tasks are just a starting point for your pre-winter to-do list, they are significant steps. For assistance with these projects or other home maintenance endeavors, a handyman in Myrtle Beach is at your service.
Don’t hesitate to call The Handyman – we can help you with a variety of small renovations, repairs, and maintenance projects. Your home’s winter readiness is our priority!
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The Handyman
Myrtle Beach, SC
843-286-5873
handymanmyrtlebeach.com