The fall season is a good time to begin preparing your home for winter. Here are some basic steps to take to make sure your home is ready for the upcoming weather changes. 1) Furnace Inspection - Call an HVAC professional to inspect your furnace and clean ducts. Stock up on furnace filters and change them monthly. Consider switching out your thermostat for a programmable thermostat. 2) Get the Fireplace Ready - Cap or screen the top of the chimney to keep out rodents and birds. If the chimney hasn't been cleaned for awhile, call a chimney sweep to remove soot and creosote. Buy firewood or chop wood and store it in a dry place away from the exterior of your home. Inspect the fireplace damper for proper opening and closing. Check the mortar between bricks and tuckpoint. 3) Check the Exterior, Doors and Windows - Inspect exterior for crevice cracks and exposed entry points around pipes and seal them. Use weather stripping around doors to prevent cold air from entering the home and caulk windows. Replace cracked glass in windows. 4) Inspect Roof, Gutters and Downspouts - Adding extra insulation to the attic will prevent warm air from creeping to your roof. Check flashing to ensure water cannot enter the home. Replace worn roof shingles or tiles. Clean out the gutters and downspouts. For more valuable advice to help you get ready for the coming colder weather, please see the link listed below.

Blog inspired by article written by Elizabeth Weintraub and featured on about.com and can be seen here:  http://homebuying.about.com/od/buyingahome/qt/92607_WinterHom.htm