Winter maintenance checklist for Adelaide Hills properties
Clogged gutters, fallen branches and icy mornings are all part of winter in the Adelaide Hills. The abundant nature that attracts so many to the Hills is also what makes for tricky maintenance in the cooler months.
It’s not uncommon to see a fallen tree over the road or powerlines in the winter.
Because of the cooler temperatures (which is also responsible for making some of our best local wines we’re known for), residents need to pay extra attention to home care between June – September.
Every new season brings specific maintenance requirements but there are home care tasks that are important year-round.
If you’re home more this winter, add these 8 DIY tasks to your weekend to-do list.
1. Check your roof and gutters
Get your roof checked by a professional to avoid leaks or issues, as it rains more in the Adelaide Hills. Many Hills homes are surrounded by trees, so gutter maintenance is critical.
Avoid leaves, twigs, branches and debris from accumulating in your gutters by cleaning them every three months. Consider installing gutter guards to reduce blockages.
2. Clean ducted heating vents
Air/heating ducts capture dust that needs to be cleared out regularly. Avoid that dust smell when the heat comes on. Get them professionally cleaned once a year. This will also improve your indoor air quality.
3. Fireplace precautions
Keep your chimney clear and cared for. Make sure your whole family knows the fireplace protocol. E.g. no new logs after 9pm, when the fireplace can burn unattended.
4. Check detectors
Test your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors, replace the batteries, and check the replacement dates.
5. Empty dryer
It’s a simple task but one that’s easy to forget. Remove the lint from the dryer to avoid a fire hazard.
6. Seal windows and doors
Check for drafts and gaps where heat is going out / cold is coming in. Use sealant or weatherstripping to reduce your heat loss and hefty bills.
7. Weatherproof exterior pipes
Use pipe insulation or heat tape to protect your pipes when temperatures drop. A quick trip to Bunnings to get supplies should do the trick.
8. Tend to the garden
Prune overhanging branches, trim hedges, and add mulch to garden beds to protect plants from the frost. Put all individual items undercover and stored securely, as winter can get very windy.
In addition, keep in mind common issues such as waterlogging from heavy rain, indoor mould and condensation from poor ventilation, and power outages.
Keep in mind, any improvements you make on your home will add to its commercial value, if or when you go to sell. If you want to know what your house is currently worth, request a free property appraisal. It’s good practice to do every 6-12 months, so you can make informed decisions about your property over the years.
Want more house value-add ideas that are specific for your property, from our real estate agents? **You can book a call with us anytime.**
