Home Maintenance Tips | November 2024
With Thanksgiving approaching and the winter holidays around the corner, there are things to look forward to (and prepare for) this time of year. Batten down the hatches for winter weather and get a jump on holiday prep, so you can relax and savor the simple pleasures of the season, like family dinners and walks in the crisp air outdoors.
Replace Floor Protectors on Chairs
Don’t let dining chairs do damage to your hardwood floors: Check their feet and add or replace floor-protecting pads if needed. Felt pads come in self-adhesive and nail-in varieties; if you’re using the self-adhesive type, be sure to clean the base of each chair foot thoroughly and allow it to dry before applying.
2. Check Paths, Stairs and Railings for Safety
Slips and falls on ice and snow can happen anywhere, but they’re even more likely if the footing is uneven or a railing isn’t sturdy. Take a walk around your home’s exterior, paying special attention to walkways, stairs and railings, and make repairs as needed.
3. Get a Jump on Holiday Prep
If you plan to have a special holiday meal, take a bit of time now to prepare a few things in advance. Launder and iron the fancy linens (roll up freshly ironed linens on old wrapping paper tubes to prevent wrinkles), drop off the kitchen knives for a professional sharpening or polish some silver — you’ll thank yourself later.
4. Deep Clean Bathrooms
Aim to schedule a deep cleaning of the bathrooms so a quick surface wipe-down will be all you’ll need to get things looking spotless again during the holidays.
5. Check Bathtub Caulk and Repair if Needed
While cleaning the bathroom, notice the condition of the caulk around the tub. Cracked or worn out caulk can allow water to seep into your home’s framing. If you spot a problem area, get it replaced as soon as possible.
6. Inspect the Home’s Exterior and then Cover Gaps
Cover any gaps you find around the exterior of your home that may be large enough for a mouse to enter — it doesn’t take much space for these little critters to sneak in. Cover exterior vents with hardware cloth, and attach door sweeps to the bottoms of exterior doors to stop furry creatures from squeezing in when the weather turns chilly.
7. Fix Plumbing Issues Before the Holiday Crunch
Have a slow drain, stuck garbage disposal or finicky toilet? Don’t wait until the busy holiday season, when it may be harder to find a plumber who’s available. Fix it now.
8. Stock up for Winter
If you live in a region with cold, snowy winters, taking the time now to stock up on winter gear and supplies will mean less stress when that first big storm hits.
Check snow shovels and ice scrapers; replace as needed.
If you use a fireplace or wood stove, order firewood.
Pick up a bag of pet- and plant-safe ice melt.
Restock emergency kits for car and home.
If you use a snow blower, have it serviced and purchase fuel.
If your home has an emergency generator make sure to review safety standards (the American Red Cross has helpful tips) and check that it’s working properly.
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