About Brenda Fontaine

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Auburn, Maine, United States
Your Central Maine Real Estate Agent. A marketing specialist, Brenda Fontaine is a broker who advises and counsels seller clients. She is an excellent problem solver, experienced negotiator, attends closings, and continuously researches for new and better ways to market Fontaine listings.

Thursday, October 13, 2011

FALL HOME MAINTENANCE TIPS

There is no denying it now....fall is here!
The leaves are turning beautiful colors,
the air is cooler and the days are shorter.
It is also time for fall maintenance.
Here is our top 10 list of fall maintenance items!
1. Clean the gutters and downspouts to avoid ice backups that can cause roof leaks and expensive sheetrock damage.
2. Caulk any gaps around windows, doors or vents. Did you know rodents can squeeze through an opening only 1/4 inch tall? Caulking those gaps should help to keep unwanted guests out!
3. Check weather stripping around doors and windows and install storm windows & doors.
4. Insulate your outlets and switches with foam outlet insulators.
5. Clean the dryer vent and clean behind the dryer.
6. Have your heating system cleaned and serviced including your chimney and filters. Not only will your home be safer, but the air will be cleaner and your system will run more efficiently.
7. Change the battery in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and test them. Most of these devices suggest that you change the battery yearly and replace the unit every 3 years. When was the last time you tested yours or changed the battery?
8. Shut off and/or insulate any outside spigots. This will help prevent frozen and broken pipes.
9. Fertilize the lawn...yes in the fall. Fertilizing in the fall will make the grass roots stronger without feeding the weeds like fertilizing in the spring.
10. Reverse your ceiling fans. Did you know that most ceiling fans have a switch to reverse the way the blades rotate? If you have the blades rotate clockwise, it will help move down the warm air trapped at the ceiling!
What is your best fall maintenance tip? 

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