Home operation and maintenance can prove to be quite easy if we understand what needs to be done and perform all of the required maintenance on time. Just like owning a car where you change the oil every three thousand miles and check the brakes and the spark plugs every fifteen thousand miles, you should regularly maintain your home.

As we get into the fall season and the days start getting shorter and the nights colder, we need to perform some routine maintenance to avoid major problems and to run our home more efficiently.

Caution should be used when attempting to follow any or all of these maintenance tips. Only perform these operations if you have the know-how and proper skill to take on these tasks. Remember to follow all manufacturers' instructions, disconnect the power, gas, water, etc., and if you have questions always consult with a professional. We are not responsible for any content shown, we assume no liability for improper maintenance, damage, or injury, and leave you to perform any tasks AT YOUR OWN RISK.

• Heating System    Have a qualified professional service the unit to prepare the unit for the heating system. Some companies run specials in the beginning of the falls season before the demand really starts to peak, so look to have the unit(s) serviced early.
  
  
• Duct Dampers    Adjust dampers to switch from cooling to heating. As hot air rises, adjust your dampers to release the hot air closer to the floor and the main level of the home. Adjust as necessary to maintain a comfortable temperature in all rooms.
  
  
• Water Heater    Have a qualified professional service the unit along with the heating system.
  
  
• Gutters    Clean gutters regularly during the fall season to prevent excessive build-up of leaves and debris that can clog the gutters and cause standing water to misalign the gutters causing further problems with water spilling over the gutters.
  
  
• Roof    Inspect the roof from the ground for any damage. Any tree branches or tall bushes in contact with the roof should be trimmed back to prevent localized deterioration of the roof surface where the tree is making contact.
  
  
• Chimney    Inspect the chimney for cracks, damage to the cap, flashings, and crickets, and any signs of nests or infestation.
  
  
• Sump Pump    Ensure that the pump is plugged in and working properly. By lifting the float to turn on the pump, the pump should pump water out of the sump hole far enough away from the foundation to prevent the water from coming into contact with the foundation.
  
  
• Exterior Trim, Soffits, Rake board, Fascia, Posts, Windows    Check for deterioration, holes, missing paint, missing or broken glazing. Repair any problems noted with paint, caulk, and/or glazing.
  
  
• Exterior Grade    Check that the grounds slope away from the foundation to move any water away from the foundation. Also check to make sure that the siding is not in contact with the earth. There should be a gap where the foundation is visible between the siding and the earth.
  
  
• Basement    Check for any leaks, cracks, movement, rot, or mildew. Repair as necessary.
  
  
• Exterior Hose Connections    Close the shutoff for any exterior hose connections to prevent freezing and possible pipe breaks.
  
  
• Hoses    Remove all exterior hoses from the hose connections to prevent freezing.
  
  
• Clothes Dryer Vent    Clean the lint from the dryer vent and make sure that all connections are properly attached. The dryer vent should be discharging on the exterior of the house.
  
  
• Bathtubs/Showers    Check that all tiles, tubs, and enclosures are properly caulked and attached to prevent water from seeping behind the tiles.
  
  
• Garage Door    Tighten all bolts and screws and lubricate the moving parts.
  
  
• Fireplace    Check flue, damper, and firebox. Consider getting a chimney sweep to clean the chimney of soot and creosote and to inspect the inside of the chimney for any damage or cracks.
  
  
• Sprinkler System    Call your sprinkler professional to properly drain and blow out all underground water lines to prevent them from bursting.
  
  
• Room/Window Air Conditioner    Remove the room/window air conditioner or install a cover. Follow manufacturer's instructions.
  
  
• Swimming Pool/Hot tub    Have the pool/hot tub serviced and closed for the season.
  
  
• Snow-blower/shovel    Service your snow-blower and/or make sure that your snow shovel is functional. Consider contacting a snow plow professional to make arrangements to plow the driveway after snow storms.
  
  
• Driveway/Sidewalks/Walks    Inspect the driveway/sidewalks/walks for cracks, raised sections, and missing pieces and have any safety hazards repaired.
  
  
• Trees/Shrubs/Vegetation    Trim trees and shrubs from getting too close to the house and consider having a tree surgeon cutting away any tree deadwood to keep the trees healthy.
  
  
• Patio equipment    Remove/cover the patio tables and chairs to protect them from the winter elements.
  
  
• Attic    Inspect attic for adequate insulation and add additional insulation if necessary for comfort.
  
  
• Smoke alarms, Carbon Monoxide detectors, and Fire extinguishers    Replace all batteries and check that all levels and gauges are in the correct positions and none have expired.
  
  

Mercer County Condo Inspections

Why Choose Rook Home Inspections?

What our Clients Say About Our Property Inspections

I have used several NJ home inspection companies in the past. Your company, house inspectors, and staff are the best in the business! Professional, responsive, and thorough! Keep up the good work!

Stacey A. - Home inspection performed in Middlesex, NJ
Gold Inspection Package (Home, Termite, Radon, & Mold)

More Testimonials