Living in a new home requires less maintenance and repair than an older home. However, you can extend the life of your new home by doing preventative maintenance.

You can then sit back and enjoy all of the changing seasons in the comfort of your new efficient home.

The Following is a List of Some Helpful Home Care Tips

• Cut back and trim bushes, plants and trees so that they do not become troublesome in the winter months. When they have heavy snow and ice on them they can break and cause damage to your home.

• Take all liquids that may explode or crack out of your garage due to freezing temperatures. Wrap your Water Heater with a blanket or insulation wrap and insulate pipes if all are in your garage also

• Drain and bring your hose inside. Shut off and then drain your hose water lines. This will prevent the pipe freezing and bursting.

• Protect summer décor and furniture by taking it inside from the elements.

• Gutters and downspouts need to be cleaned to promote proper water drainage and prevent ice damage. This can be done yourself with caution or you can hire a professional to clean your gutters.

• Check your furnace to make sure that your pilot light is on and that the filter has been cleaned or changed before starting and using it.

• Before using your Fireplace, have it cleaned and inspected. Keep the flue closed when not using it. Make sure the chimney has a grate to keep unwanted debris out of your chimney.

• Keep dryer vents open and free. This will prevent damage to your dryer and humid and hot air from backing into your home.

Protecting your investment is very important. Keep up with preventative maintenance. This will save you money and hassles in the future.