Get your home ready for the season

If your home has a sump pump and pit, schedule a service to ensure the pump can remove water if leaks occur.

Check the windows and doors to ensure their weather stripping is in good condition.

Get a professional to clean out the chimney and inspect the HVAC system. Make sure your furnace is in working order!

Start wrapping pipes in insulation so they'll be ready for winter freezes.

Disconnect and store your garden hose because it can accumulate water and eventually freeze in winter, potentially cracking your pipes.

Be ready for windstorms: store lawn furniture, grills, awnings and garden tools before they become "missiles" and cause damage.

Trim broken tree limbs and clean gutters and downspouts to avoid clogging, freezing, wind damage which can result in flooding - the #1 home insurance claim in the US!

Just like summer heat, winter cold can leave domestic pets at risk.  Bring water bowls inside to avoid freezing. Make sure pets have warm clean bedding. Continue flea and tick medication. Use pet sweaters/coats. And minimize long walks on icy roads.

Winter can bring dark clouds and short days leaving some of us feeling gloomy.  Get at least 15-30 minutes of exercise everyday.  Some studies say taking Vitamin D is a game changer for mental health.  Check on elderly or in-need neighbors, see if they need their driveway shoveled or help with taking the trash out. Curl up with a good book and tasty beverage from Cafe Louvre!