Fall Home Maintenance Reminders

Most of us know about weatherstripping, cleaning dryer vents, shutting off exterior faucets and removing window A/C units, but here are some other things you can do to get your home ready for the cold months ahead.

Garden – Use some of your leaves as coverage on your plants to help protect them through the winter. Also, cut your grass short by setting your mower to cut 1-1/2 or 2-inch. This will help prevent snow mold from forming and will keep tall grass blades from smothering the new grass next spring.

Gas Grill – First, shut off the gas at the LP tank, unfasten the burner, slip gas tubes off the lines and remove the unit. To prevent rust, coat the burners and metal parts with cooking oil. Keep insects from getting into the gas tubes by wrapping the burner unit in a plastic bag. If you’re storing your grill outside, keep the propane tank connected but shut off and put a protective cover over the entire grill. If you’re storing your grill inside, disconnect the tank and store it outside in an upright position away from dryer or furnace vents or children’s play areas.

Outdoor Areas – Once snow is here, it’s too late to see where potential safety hazards are, so check to make sure stairs are in good shape, railings are sturdy and that the driveway is in good repair to make for easier shoveling.

Winter Supplies – Stock up on firewood and stack it in a covered, accessible area. Check the condition of your snow shovels, snow blower and ice scrapers.

Critters – It only takes a tiny gap to allow mice and other critters into your home. Fill any small holes and cover bigger gaps with a heavy-duty material.

Fall is the perfect time to touch base with your local Shelter® agent to help you choose the proper coverage on your home and outdoor belongings before winter arrives.

• Whit Hensman – 2581 N. College Ave., Fayetteville; 479-443-WHIT or 888-999-9448

• Taylor Wethers – 1805 N. Green Acres Road, Fayetteville; 479-443-9700 or 877-248-4538

• JT Finley – 2142 N. College Ave., Fayetteville; 479-521-4220

• Randy Hutchinson – 1226 N. Garland Ave., Fayetteville; 479-444-3344