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ALL ABOUT HOUSES BY ANDY CONSOLI

🧤 A Little Pre-Winter Maintenance Pays Off

Originally published in Haverhill Life, December 2018
By Andrew B. Consoli

🏡 Why Pre-Winter Maintenance Matters

Taking a little time now to walk around your house and yard can help:

Prevent serious winter damage
Prolong the life of your home and equipment

✅ Pre-Winter Maintenance Checklist

🍂 Yard & Exterior

Clear leaves & branches to protect grass and plants.
Disconnect garden hoses from outdoor spigots —
Leaving them attached can cause pipes to freeze and burst.

🌳 Trees & Roof

Trim tree branches near or over your house —
Prevents roof, siding, and window damage.
Use binoculars to check for damaged or missing shingles.
Check the attic for leaks or stains, especially during heavy rain.

🔥 Heating System

Service your heating unit annually for best performance.
Consider a heating service contract —
It makes emergency calls faster and easier in cold weather.

🚪 Doors, Windows & Basement

Inspect seals and gaskets around doors and windows.
Close storm windows before freezing temps arrive.
Ensure cellar and basement windows are closed —
Even small openings can cause frozen pipes, especially near exterior walls.

🧂 Driveways & Walkways

Stock up on sand or salt:

Sand is safer for concrete and masonry.
Some salts can damage walkways over time.

🛠️ Outdoor Equipment

Winterize mowers & equipment:

Add fuel stabilizer, run the engine for 5 mins.
Prevents fuel system buildup during off-season.

Check your snow blower:

Make sure it has gas, proper oil, and correct tire pressure.

💡 Christmas Lights & Safety

Plug outdoor lights into a GFCI outlet.

Test it by pressing the button — it should "pop" and reset.
These outlets prevent shock and are required for outdoor use.
Test monthly to ensure safety.

🧣 And Lastly...

Pull out those warm sweaters and get ready to hunker down — winter’s coming!

📧 Got questions for Andy?
Email: info@abchomeinspection.com