Leaves changing color and blanketing the ground across the state of Michigan officially mark the end of many of our favorite summer traditions, but spark the beginning of the things we love most about autumn and fall in the Great Lakes State.

Cider and donuts, tailgating and pumpkin-flavored drinks of all sorts are some of our favorite traditions, but there’s never been a better time to add another institution to your fall routine: preventative home maintenance.

In a matter of weeks, sweatshirt weather will turn to parka-gloves-and-hat weather, and as Old Man Winter makes himself at home, he’ll wreak havoc on your home – and cause expensive damage – if you don’t prepare it for his wrath. Our team put together a list of preventative measures every Michigander should complete before winter arrives to ensure you and your family – and your home – remain safe and secure.

• Clean your gutters – leaves, dirt and other debris can obstruct gutters and downspouts, causing water to back up and create ice dams, which can severely damage your home.
• Turn off outdoor faucets – damage resulting from frozen pipes may extend far into your home, causing not only a burst pipe, but severe water/structural damage, and damage to your belongings. To effectively prevent this from happening, walk to the perimeter of your home and account for all outdoor faucets; go inside and ensure the indoor shutoff valve for each is turned to the “off” position. Now go back outside and open each valve to drain any remaining water; be sure to remove all attached hoses and store them in a safe place for the winter.
  • If you live in a home that doesn’t have indoor shutoff valves, contact a qualified plumber to discuss your best option(s).
• Flush your hot water heater – drain your water heater tank to clear any debris that’s settled at the bottom, and to reduce the risk of “hot spots” that can damage the tank and lead to premature failure, which can cause a small basement flood and extensive damage to surrounding areas and belongings.
• Clean your fireplace and chimney – make sure your fireplace, flue and doors are clean and secure to reduce the risk of a chimney fire that could cause disastrous damage to your home and put you and your family in danger.
• Ensure attic insulation doesn’t cover roof vents – keep vents clear and free flowing to prevent ice dams.
• Perform a home safety audit – check the batteries in all of your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. Ensure you have an adequate number of detectors located throughout your house. Click here for valuable, potentially life-saving information about placement.

Call us to set up a disaster preparation audit.

Our team has nearly 20 years of experience in the disaster restoration industry, and we’re uniquely qualified to identify areas of your home that are vulnerable to wind, water and fire damage. When we do, we’ll develop custom recommendations to help you prevent damage, and if you need help making recommended fixes, we’re always here to help.

Click here to schedule an appointment 24/7, 365.