Another summer has come and gone too quickly. Soon the weather will turn cold and your home will be filling up with boots, coats, and sweaters. But there are a few things you will want to check before cozying up for fall. The summer heat may have done some damage to the exterior of your home, leaving you vulnerable to air leaks, mildew, mold, and pest infestation.

Check and Replace Weather-Stripping

If your windows and doors are getting up there in age, then you should be sure to check the seals and weather-stripping for signs of wear. Over time these will lose the ability to block drafts, and that is the last thing you want with winter right around the corner. The simple task of upgrading the weather-stripping on windows and doors can save as much as 10% on your energy bills. And if windows and doors are beyond repair, you should think about scheduling time for replacement windows this season.

Put on a Fresh Coat

If you have been meaning to paint a room or another part of your home, fall is a great time to tackle those projects. The humidity is down and the dry weather will still help your work dry faster. Pay special attention to wood window frames that might need sanding and repainting.

Clean and Tighten the Gutters and Spouts

Clogged or lose gutters can be a big problem in the cold months, especially when temps start to drop below freezing. The water trapped in the spouts will turn to ice, wreaking havoc on your home. The ice can cause ice dams that inch up into the roofing or the weight can pull loose gutters away from your home. So take the time to clean away the dry leaves and debris and tighten the gutters in preparation for winter.

Inspect the Siding, Roof, and Soffits

With the most humid time of the year coming to a close, you will want to inspect any wood siding and trim for rot and decay. Go beyond a visual inspection and test your roof and siding for soft spots. Be sure to repair any loose siding or shingles, and pay close attention to any areas where water damage might have occurred. Also check the overhangs between the siding and roof line (soffits). If you notice discoloration or warping it could mean you have a leak that you need to address.

Brighten Up your Windows

In fall and winter the days get shorter and you will want to capitalize on what daylight you can. For starters you should take the time to thoroughly clean and maintain your windows. But do not use any harsh or abrasive chemicals or tools. Instead use soft, lint free cloths and mild detergent mixed with water. This should be enough to remove dirt from the inside. On the outside you might have more stubborn build up. Do not use a pressure washer to clean the exterior. Simply wash them down with the hose (no attachments) and use a vinegar and water solution and a soft bristle brush for tough stains. For professional shine use a squeegee.

Rig Up the Mud Room

With school back in session and a lot more comings and goings, you will want to keep your entryways clean and organized. The best thing to do is set up the mudroom with benches, storage, and hooks. This drop station can be functional and beautiful, and prevent dirt, mud, and slush from getting tracked all over the house.

Organize the Garage

Your garage probably needs some attention after a busy summer, especially if you hope to start storing your car inside. First, sort through all your gear and get rid of the items you haven’t used in two years. Junk or donate anything that is outgrown, expired, or beyond repair. Build some shelving and purchase bins to store sporting goods and tools. Give the floor a good sweep, and consider taking it a step further and getting the concrete sealed with epoxy.

Pest Proof Your Home

The last thing you want during fall and winter is unwanted guests—and we are not talking about in-laws. With winter small animals and bugs look for places to stay sheltered and warm. Check around your home for any gaps, holes, or broken window screens—especially in the basement. Also consider hiring an exterminator or pest control company to seal up access and treat your property to keep pests out.

At Scientific Home Services we focus on details and quality workmanship. If you discover something amiss and need replacement windows in Chicago, IL before winter, give us a call. Contact us at (847) 752-0370 or stop by 7240 Saint Louis Ave., Skokie, IL 60076.