Now that the New Year is here, it’s a time of making promises for January and beyond. You likely make resolutions for your health, finances and relationships, but what about your house? If there has been a project you’ve been meaning to do, from new siding to roofing, now’s the time to start planning. Even routine maintenance should make it onto your list so you can extend the lifespan of everything from your roof to your doors.

Getting these resolutions onto paper for your home will ensure you stick to them. Here are a few suggestions.

Check Your Gutters

The typical 1,000-sq.-ft. roof will disperse more than 600 gallons of water during a one-inch rainfall, which translates to more than 150 gallons per downspout if you have the typical four (one at each corner). Think of all that water being dumped into the ground right near your basement! To avoid flooding or leaks, make sure your downspouts are angled away from the basement so water can flow further off into your yard. Use easy-to-install extensions if necessary.

Or, perhaps you’ve been noticing a lack of water flow through the gutters. This is likely because your gutters are clogged with debris. Scoop out all the leaves and twigs so you can get that water flowing freely again. If those clogs persist, this can tax your gutter system so much so that it starts to strain your roof and siding, pulling away and causing damage. It may be time to invest in new, wider seamless gutters to accommodate the flow of water.

Seal Cracks Around Windows and Doors

The weather is only going to get colder. Now is the time to winterize your home by sealing cracks with caulk and replacing the weather stripping around windows and doors. If you find yourself sealing more and more cracks every winter, you may want to think about a new entry door or replacement windows.

Hi-Tech windows, for example, are made with vinyl materials and insulated glass that limit how much energy they allow in and out. Plus, “Low-E” glass blocks UV light from entering your home, preventing fading to your interiors.

You can address two New Year’s resolutions in one with new windows and doors. You’ll be enhancing the look of your home as well as saving money on your energy bills. Now you can check off that “save money this year” box!

“Tune Up” Your Roof

Most people don’t even think about their home’s roof until a problem occurs. Suddenly there is a mysterious leak staining an interior ceiling, or a branch punctures a weak spot on the roof deck. Just as you would tune up your car or truck before trouble happens, you can take preventative steps to keep your roof in tip-top shape. Start by having an inspection done by a professional roofer, who will be able to identify potential problem areas. Something simple, like loose shingles or flashing, can be easily repaired to prevent a bigger headache. More complex problems, like worn underlayment or recurring ice dams, may take more time to address, but are less expensive to fix than a total roof replacement. Get this done before the spring rains arrive.

Contact Hi-Tech Windows & Siding

It’s never too early to start planning. Address these home improvement resolutions now and you’ll have a solid plan in place come spring. Schedule your consultation with us about any repairs that need to be made to your exteriors or to plan a new project, from windows to siding. Call us now at 800-851-0900.