10 Winter Home Maintenance Tips!

Here is our latest top ten tips for winter home maintenance!
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​There is always plenty to do this time of year so check our other blog posts for our winter tips lists from years past.

1. Trim trees: Remove dead branches and any branches close to, or hanging over, your home or chimney.  
2. Clear gutters: If you didn't do it in the fall, clear gutters and downspout of all debris.
3. Turn downspouts so they direct water away from the foundation. If you have a leaky foundation extend the downspouts a good 4 feet out. 
4. Stock up on ice melt and make it easily accessible from both the driveway and your home's exits.
5. Check steps and handrails for any necessary repairs. 
6. Change the batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. A good rule for this is to do this when the clocks change for daylight savings time. 
7. Check your attic for any needed repairs or replacement to the insulation. 
8. Drain and store all outside hoses. Then drain and shut off the spouts to prevent freezing. 
9. Store extra blankets and flashlights in an easy to find place in case of power outages.
10. Make SURE that your deck's ledger board is well secured to your home. Every year there are decks that fail under our snow loads here in the Poconos. 

Have a safe and wonderful holiday season!