wherever two dissimilar building materials abut, e.g., where siding meets foundations or the flashings of chimneys or vents. Drive a nail unto the tube's opening to prevent the caulk from drying out between uses.
Gutters: Clean out accumulated leaves and debris. Run water through gutters to make sure that they drain properly and don't leak. Winter months: Keep gutters clear of ice to prevent cracking and ensure spring snow runoff.
Attic: Check vent openings for nests and other blockages. Make sure vents and attic fans are working properly. Look for signs of roof and flashing leaks on rafters and insulation.
Exterior walls: Check for loose or missing siding. Caulk joints and minor cracks. Patch minor deteriorating finishes but leave major painting or staining projects for the spring.
Exterior plumbing: Drain and shut off sprinkler systems and exterior watersources. Leave taps slightly open. Insulate exterior spigots and pipes that can't be drained or shut off.
Insulate your foundation: Bagged leaves make excellent insulating material. Place bags snugly on the ground against the foundation.
Windows & Doors (Exterior): Clean and repair screens. Spray with rust preventative. Install storm windows and doors. Clear debris from basement window wells.
Inspect and fortify
. Normally thought of as a winter necessity, weather-stripping is beneficial year round. In hot months, it will cut heat gain as much as it reduces heat loss in the winter,
Interior:
Windows & Doors (Interior): Check for air leaks. Putty, caulk, or weather-strip as needed. Clean and lubricate window channels for smoother, tighter closing.
Basement: Check cracks and leaks in walls and floors; patch as required. Make sure vents are clean and working properly. Test, clean, and lubricate sump pump.
Heating System: Clean permanent furnace filters. Replace paper or disposable filters. Make this part of your monthly chores during the heating season. Have your heating system serviced once a year by a professional. Clean and vacuum baseboard heaters, heating ducts, and vents. Remove or winterize air conditioners.
Steam Radiators: Purge the air from steam radiators. Place a bucket under the tap, open valve wide-open, and wait until hot water begins to pour out -- to totally clear the line of air.
Fireplace or Wood Stove: Check for soot buildup before the heating season and midseason if used frequently. Soot buildup should not reach ?" thickness before chimney is cleaned. Make sure fireplace or wood stove doors seal tightly. Close damper between uses.
Insulation: Don't overlook a wall or floor that separates your living space from an uninsulated garage, basement, or crawl space. Consult the U.S. Department of Energy's
