If you currently own a Lake Michigan Shoreline home, there are a few things you’ll want to do to ensure your home stays in great shape throughout the coming colder months before autumn rains and snowfall take their toll on your home. Below are seven ways to get your home ready for fall!
1. Add weatherstripping to doors and windows- Weatherstripping can be plastic, foam, felt or metal; its job is to seal small gaps, keeping moisture and cold air outside where they belong. Newer, energy-efficient windows generally don't require added weatherstripping, but if your windows are older, weatherstripping can keep drafts at bay and energy costs down.
2. Check storm windows- If you have storm windows that are cracked or dirty, repair and clean them now; prior to autumn installation.
3. Insulation speculation- This is a good time to check the condition of insulation and see if you need more, especially if you live in an older Lake Michigan Shoreline home. You can purchase un-backed or loose-fill insulation if you are just beefing up what is already there. If your walls lack insulation, consider having a professional install blown-in insulation foam. The energy savings will probably offset the cost of the procedure in a couple of years.
4. Check gutters- Do a quick visual check to make sure gutters are clear — they'll be performing double duty soon with rainstorms and falling leaves.
5. Keep mice out- September inspires nesting in mice as well as humans. Mice are looking for a winter home now, and that newly insulated attic would be just the spot. Mice can squeeze through 1/4-inch openings. Make sure all exterior vents are screened, and that there are no gaps underneath garage doors.
6. Caulk exterior- Think of caulk as weatherstripping in a tube. Any gap on the outside of your home can be a candidate for caulking. Look at transition spots: corners, windows, doors, areas where masonry joins siding, or places where vents and other objects protrude from walls. Carefully read manufacturer's directions to make sure the caulk you buy will work where you plan to use it, and don't forget to purchase a caulking gun. Early fall is a good time for this task because caulk becomes difficult to apply when the temperature falls.
7. Inspect your roof and chimney- If your roof isn't too steep, and isn't covered with slate or tile, you may be able to carefully walk on it on a dry day. Look for broken or missing shingles, missing or damaged flashing and seals around vent pipes and chimneys, and damage to boards along the eaves. Also peer down your chimney with a flashlight to make sure no animals have set up house in it. If you can't get on your roof, perform this inspection with a ladder around the perimeter. Some patches and roofing cement now can prevent thousands of dollars of water damage later in the winter.
As the Shoreline Property Advisors team, we’re committed to providing the best advice possible for those who are buying and selling on the Lake Michigan Shoreline, as well as those who already reside in one of the beautiful Lake Michigan Shoreline homes. We hope these tips help you as you prepare your home for fall!
If you have questions about living along the Lake Michigan Shoreline, would like more information about the Lake Michigan Shoreline Real Estate market, or are ready to buy a vacation home or permanent residence along this stunning shoreline; let us know! We’re here to help you in any way possible and look forward to working with you!
Shoreline Property Advisors
@ Prudential Rubloff
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