End of the Year Home Care
It has been such an exciting and successful year for all of us at Architecture Plus. We've had some very exciting commercial and residential projects, and we've met some very amazing people and clients. We are excited to end this year with a bang, and ring in an even better 2020!
We are so thankful for the homes and structures we helped make a reality for so many in 2019. As you are hanging up your decorations on your new home or getting it ready for a new year, it's time to think about its end of the year maintenance. Each season brings different care and considerations you need to give to your home or commercial space so it continues to maintain it's strength. You put so much time into dreaming it up and working with us to make it a reality for you. Take the time to do these few tasks and preventative steps, and this will be your best winter season yet!
Even here in the Lowcountry, we do need to think about our heating systems. It does get chilly every once in a while, and when it does we aren't used to those temperatures! So we end up rushing to our thermostats and turning them up. Make sure to have your heating system inspected before those temperatures drop. We also put our air conditioners through a hard summer, so while you're having your heating inspected, do yourself the favor of having your AC system looked at as well.
If you have a fireplace and chimney in your new build or historical re-fittings, you need to have these inspected. They have had plenty of time to gain new inhabitants while summer was here and your flue was closed. Old gunk could be built up from last year, along with leaves and branches piling up inside blocking the flow of smoke that could potentially turn into a fire hazard. Also, the storms from this past summer and hurricane season could have left some unforeseen damage that needs to be remedied before the first fire of the season.
Check your windows and doors! With our older historic homes we've worked on this year, this might be an issue you've worked with before. But even with a new home, it's smart to check the seals of both. Who knows what the summer heat or storms did to the seals around either. If not checked and repaired this could end up becoming a serious structural issue and make your heating bill jump up higher than you've ever seen it.
Pay special attention to your roof and potential leaks. These summer storms were thankfully not as dangerous as they could have been. But there still might be some leftover unseen damage that hasn't made its appearance yet. This could lead to some very scary issues during the cooler months, including hazardous leaks. This could lead to dangerous structural damage, leaving you out in the cold when you least expect it. Pay attention to your insulation and if it needs to be replaced or added to.
If you haven't already, it might be time to consider a smart thermostat. It's so easy to feel that chill here in the Lowcountry and want to hike up that thermostat without hesitation. Your toes might enjoy that, but your bank account might not be so appreciative. While you're having your heating and cooling systems inspected, talk with them about adding in a smart thermostat. You can set or control your settings on your phone, even while you're miles away traveling for the holidays!
Winter here in the Lowcountry is very mild compared to those up north. We probably won't see snow, but we will still see cooler temperatures and other weather that could affect your home. It's always best to stay ahead of any issues and begin the new year on the right foot. Make sure to give your home a good inspection before Santa arrives, especially that roof! We hope you have a happy holiday and a wonderful New Year!