Important issuses like these should not be over looked. With this I feel it should be reblogged to get out to as many people as possible.
With the leaves starting to change, it's time to put some consideration to getting the summer home ready for winter. As this valuable property will not be used for some time, necessary precautions should be taken so that when it's time to use it in the spring, it provides as much joy as it did the previous season.
First is the water system. All lines in the house should definitely be drained at it's lowest point. If needed, be prepared to use an air compressor to get this done. Nobody wants to come back to the house in the spring to find that pipes froze and created significant damage.
Drains that don't allow for full vacate, should be protected with RV anti-freeze. This is a safe, biodegradable solution that will not harm the waste or septic systems when the house is opened again in the spring. Be sure to drop some into the toilets, tub or showers, and all sink drains. If there is a dish washer, it should be wise to drop some into the lower section as well.
If the house is serviced by public water, it would be a good thing to get the meter removed. If the water system is from a well, then the pump power should be disconnect at the breaker box, and the well tank drained at the base.
The hot water heater should also be drained from the valve at the tank bottom. This is not only good for getting all of the water out of the system, but is also an excellent way to remove any sediment that would have accumulated in the tank, especially from well water.
On the outside of the house, make sure all windows are properly closed and that all doors and windows are sealed tightly. Caulk might be necessary as well.
Shutters should be closed to protect the windows, and if needed, make sure they are secured properly. Switch out summer screens with glass replacements from storage. If you have storm windows, install them. If your home has a basement, consider protecting its window wells by covering them with plastic shields.
Make sure any small cracks are properly sealed as insects and even mice can find a way to get in if not.
Trim trees if branches hang too close to the house or electrical wires.
Plant spring flower bulbs and lift bulbs that cannot winter over such as dahlias in areas where the ground freezes.
Seal driveways, brick patios and wood decks.
Move sensitive potted plants indoors or to a sheltered area.
Thoroughly inspect the roof, gutters and downspouts. Check flashing to ensure water cannot enter the home. Replace worn roof shingles or tiles. Clean out the gutters and use a hose to spray water down the downspouts to clear away debris.
When the season is over, we would like to make sure that the summer home is safe and secure for the winter. Nobody wants to get back in the spring and face the costs that can mount up because of not securing the summer home properly.
Obviously the ideal scenario would be to get a huge tarp and completely cover and secure the seasonal property, but that is not possible.
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Valerie Osterhoudt, ABR
(Accredited Buyers Representative)
Is a Full Time Realtor® with with Johnson Real Estate, in Cromwell, CT who specializes in Homes and Condos For Sale in the Middlesex and Hartford Counties in CT.
Valerie Osterhoudt, ABR ~Johnson Real Estate, Inc.
cell: 860.883.8889
email: Valerie Osterhoudt, ABR
website: www.CTrealtorMLS.com
