{"id":2030,"date":"2022-09-18T13:45:30","date_gmt":"2022-09-18T17:45:30","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/boston-south-shore.certapro.com\/?post_type=community&#038;p=2030"},"modified":"2025-08-14T09:49:52","modified_gmt":"2025-08-14T13:49:52","slug":"fall-maintenance-checklist","status":"publish","type":"community","link":"https:\/\/certapro.com\/boston-south-shore\/community\/fall-maintenance-checklist\/","title":{"rendered":"Fall maintenance checklist for your South Shore, Plymouth &amp; Boston-area home."},"content":{"rendered":"<h2>1. Clean your gutters<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright wp-image-2032 size-medium col-xs-12 col-sm-4\" src=\"https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/gutter-cleaning.jpg\" alt=\"gutter cleaning boston\" width=\"300\" height=\"187\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/gutter-cleaning-300x187.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/gutter-cleaning-768x479.jpg 768w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/gutter-cleaning-1024x639.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/gutter-cleaning-960x599.jpg 960w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/gutter-cleaning-720x449.jpg 720w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/gutter-cleaning-480x300.jpg 480w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/gutter-cleaning-360x225.jpg 360w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/gutter-cleaning-240x150.jpg 240w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/gutter-cleaning.jpg 1349w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/h2>\n<p>Clean gutters not blocked by leaves, pine needles, and debris are less likely to cause ice dams in the wintertime.<\/p>\n<p>Consider getting a \u201cgutter helmet\u201d to help prevent future debris from clogging up your gutters.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Gutters need painting? &#8211; Here&#8217;s how to DIY this:<\/strong><\/h3>\n<div class=\"elementToProof\">\n<div>\n<ul data-editing-info=\"{&quot;orderedStyleType&quot;:1,&quot;unorderedStyleType&quot;:1}\" data-listchain=\"__List_Chain_619\">\n<li>For DIY-ers &#8211; leave the gutters in place while painting them. \u00a0It&#8217;s crucial to allow water movement away from your home, and if you take the gutters down and a rain storm occurs, your basement can flood. \u00a0(Our professional painters DO remove gutters but replace them that same day in case of rain).<\/li>\n<li>Clean the gutters and downspouts to remove dirt, mold, and chalking from the proposed area to paint.\u00a0 You can use TSP and water or a tile-cleaning solution.\u00a0 Allow the surface to dry adequately.<\/li>\n<li>Lightly sand the surfaces to de-gloss the existing coating and wipe the surface with a tack cloth to remove the dust.<\/li>\n<li>Apply two coats of acrylic Sherwin Williams Latitude in the color of your choice.<\/li>\n<li>If any joints are loose,we recommend using small, non-corroding downspout screws at all joints, including where it connects to the gutter.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>2. Turn off and drain all outside water sources<\/h2>\n<h2><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright wp-image-2033 size-medium col-xs-12 col-sm-4\" src=\"https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/outdoor-facuet-south-shore.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"193\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/outdoor-facuet-south-shore-300x193.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/outdoor-facuet-south-shore-768x494.jpg 768w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/outdoor-facuet-south-shore-1024x659.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/outdoor-facuet-south-shore-1440x926.jpg 1440w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/outdoor-facuet-south-shore-960x618.jpg 960w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/outdoor-facuet-south-shore-720x463.jpg 720w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/outdoor-facuet-south-shore-480x309.jpg 480w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/outdoor-facuet-south-shore-360x232.jpg 360w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/outdoor-facuet-south-shore-240x154.jpg 240w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/outdoor-facuet-south-shore.jpg 1466w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/h2>\n<p>This includes outdoor showers, sprinkler systems, and spigots.<\/p>\n<p>If you are unsure how to turn off your outdoor water sources, hire a plumber (see #14 below for our recommended service providers, including a plumber). \u00a0If you take photos of the steps they use to turn it off, you can refer to the photos next year and do this project yourself.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>3. Consider adding a \u201cmaintenance coat\u201d of paint or stain to your trim, clapboards, and shingles.<\/h2>\n<h2><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright wp-image-2034 size-medium col-xs-12 col-sm-4\" src=\"https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/cedar-shingle-house.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"185\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/cedar-shingle-house-300x185.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/cedar-shingle-house-768x473.jpg 768w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/cedar-shingle-house-1024x631.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/cedar-shingle-house-960x591.jpg 960w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/cedar-shingle-house-720x443.jpg 720w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/cedar-shingle-house-480x296.jpg 480w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/cedar-shingle-house-360x222.jpg 360w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/cedar-shingle-house-240x148.jpg 240w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/cedar-shingle-house.jpg 1348w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/h2>\n<p>This is necessary if you see wear and tear from previous winters on the wood in the form of faded paint and bare wood peeking through.<\/p>\n<p>Just email <a href=\"mailto:pnejame@certapro.com\">pnejame@certapro.com<\/a> to set up a quote or use our <a href=\"#estimate\">online scheduler<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>South Shore and Plymouth area homes on or near the coast are especially vulnerable to the wear and tear the salt air, wind and rain causes.<\/p>\n<p>Homes in Massachusetts coastal towns like\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/certapro.com\/boston-south-shore\/best-painting-contractors-duxbury\/\">Duxbury<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/certapro.com\/boston-south-shore\/house-painters-marshfield\/\">Marshfield<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/certapro.com\/boston-south-shore\/best-painting-contractors-scituate\/\">Scituate<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/certapro.com\/boston-south-shore\/best-painting-contractors-cohasset\/\">Cohasset<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/certapro.com\/boston-south-shore\/house-painters-hingham\/\">Hingham<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/certapro.com\/boston-south-shore\/painters-in-dartmouth\/\">Dartmouth<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/certapro.com\/boston-south-shore\/painters-in-marion-ma\/\">Marion<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/certapro.com\/boston-south-shore\/painters-in-plymouth-ma\/\">Plymouth<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/certapro.com\/boston-south-shore\/painters-kingston-massachusetts\/\">Kingston<\/a>, and <a href=\"https:\/\/certapro.com\/boston-south-shore\/house-painters-hull\/\">Hull<\/a> need painting more often (every 3-5 years) than non-coastal homes (every 5-7 years).<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>4. Replace rotted wood.<\/h2>\n<h2><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright wp-image-2035 size-medium col-xs-12 col-sm-4\" src=\"https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/wood-rot-window.jpg\" alt=\"wood rot window boston home\" width=\"300\" height=\"185\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/wood-rot-window-300x185.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/wood-rot-window-768x475.jpg 768w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/wood-rot-window-1024x633.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/wood-rot-window-1440x890.jpg 1440w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/wood-rot-window-960x593.jpg 960w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/wood-rot-window-720x445.jpg 720w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/wood-rot-window-480x297.jpg 480w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/wood-rot-window-360x223.jpg 360w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/wood-rot-window-240x148.jpg 240w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/wood-rot-window.jpg 1527w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/h2>\n<p>You don\u2019t want water to continue to get inside the wood and rot it even more throughout the winter. This is a case of \u201ca stitch in time saves nine.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Again, we <a href=\"https:\/\/boston-south-shore.certapro.com\/community\/wood-rot-repair-in-boston-south-shore-areas\/\">replace rotted wood as a service<\/a>, so we\u2019re happy to help you; just email <a href=\"mailto:Pnejame@certapro.com\">Pnejame@certapro.com<\/a> to set up a quote or use our <a href=\"#estimate\">online scheduler<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>5. Cover outdoor furniture etc.<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright wp-image-2036 size-medium col-xs-12 col-sm-4\" src=\"https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/outdoor-table-and-chairs.jpg\" alt=\"outdoor table and chairs in snow\" width=\"300\" height=\"198\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/outdoor-table-and-chairs-300x198.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/outdoor-table-and-chairs-768x508.jpg 768w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/outdoor-table-and-chairs-1024x677.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/outdoor-table-and-chairs-960x635.jpg 960w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/outdoor-table-and-chairs-720x476.jpg 720w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/outdoor-table-and-chairs-480x317.jpg 480w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/outdoor-table-and-chairs-360x238.jpg 360w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/outdoor-table-and-chairs-240x159.jpg 240w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/outdoor-table-and-chairs.jpg 1423w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/h2>\n<p>An inexpensive alternative to custom covers is regular tarps and bungee cords!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>6. Tie off or cover tall bushes.<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright wp-image-2037 size-medium col-xs-12 col-sm-4\" src=\"https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/bushes-in-yard.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"184\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/bushes-in-yard-300x184.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/bushes-in-yard-768x470.jpg 768w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/bushes-in-yard-1024x627.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/bushes-in-yard-960x588.jpg 960w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/bushes-in-yard-720x441.jpg 720w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/bushes-in-yard-480x294.jpg 480w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/bushes-in-yard-360x220.jpg 360w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/bushes-in-yard-240x147.jpg 240w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/bushes-in-yard.jpg 1436w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/h2>\n<p>This can prevent branches from breaking or other damage to the bush or tree from heavy snow loads.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>7. Keep mowing your lawn, rake leaves, and seed any bald spots.<\/h2>\n<h2><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright wp-image-2038 size-medium col-xs-12 col-sm-4\" src=\"https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/mowing-leaves.jpg\" alt=\"mow lawn in fall in boston\" width=\"300\" height=\"208\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/mowing-leaves-300x208.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/mowing-leaves-768x532.jpg 768w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/mowing-leaves-1024x710.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/mowing-leaves-960x666.jpg 960w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/mowing-leaves-720x499.jpg 720w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/mowing-leaves-480x333.jpg 480w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/mowing-leaves-360x250.jpg 360w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/mowing-leaves-240x166.jpg 240w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/mowing-leaves.jpg 1330w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/h2>\n<p>The leaves you pick up will help feed the lawn if you use a mulching mower. Generally, leaves are done falling on the South Shore by Thanksgiving.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>8. Turn off your air conditioning unit<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright wp-image-2039 size-medium col-xs-12 col-sm-4\" src=\"https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/ac-unit-off.jpg\" alt=\"ac unit outside house\" width=\"300\" height=\"219\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/ac-unit-off-300x219.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/ac-unit-off-768x560.jpg 768w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/ac-unit-off-1024x747.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/ac-unit-off-960x700.jpg 960w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/ac-unit-off-720x525.jpg 720w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/ac-unit-off-480x350.jpg 480w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/ac-unit-off-360x263.jpg 360w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/ac-unit-off-240x175.jpg 240w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/ac-unit-off-753x549.jpg 753w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/ac-unit-off.jpg 1165w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/h2>\n<p>So that you don\u2019t accidentally have the air conditioning running while the heat is on (hey, it happens!).<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>9. Close air conditioning vents throughout your home<\/h2>\n<h2><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright wp-image-2040 size-medium col-xs-12 col-sm-4\" src=\"https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/ac-vent.jpg\" alt=\"ac vents\" width=\"300\" height=\"214\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/ac-vent-300x214.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/ac-vent-768x547.jpg 768w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/ac-vent-1024x730.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/ac-vent-960x684.jpg 960w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/ac-vent-720x513.jpg 720w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/ac-vent-480x342.jpg 480w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/ac-vent-360x256.jpg 360w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/ac-vent-240x171.jpg 240w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/ac-vent.jpg 1290w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/h2>\n<p>This helps keep the heat inside your home and not escaping through the vents throughout the winter.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>10. Fill up your grill\u2019s propane tank<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright wp-image-2041 size-medium col-xs-12 col-sm-4\" src=\"https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/propane-tank.jpg\" alt=\"propane tank fill\" width=\"300\" height=\"209\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/propane-tank-300x209.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/propane-tank-768x535.jpg 768w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/propane-tank-1024x713.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/propane-tank-960x669.jpg 960w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/propane-tank-720x502.jpg 720w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/propane-tank-480x334.jpg 480w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/propane-tank-360x251.jpg 360w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/propane-tank-240x167.jpg 240w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/propane-tank.jpg 1362w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/h2>\n<p>This way you can grill all winter &#8211; especially handy if your electricity goes off and you have an electric stove.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>11. Consider having your driveway maintained with a seal coat.<\/h2>\n<h2><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright wp-image-2042 size-medium col-xs-12 col-sm-4\" src=\"https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/driveway-sealing-for-winter.jpg\" alt=\"driveway seal winter\" width=\"300\" height=\"204\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/driveway-sealing-for-winter-300x204.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/driveway-sealing-for-winter-768x522.jpg 768w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/driveway-sealing-for-winter-1024x696.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/driveway-sealing-for-winter-960x652.jpg 960w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/driveway-sealing-for-winter-720x489.jpg 720w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/driveway-sealing-for-winter-480x326.jpg 480w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/driveway-sealing-for-winter-360x245.jpg 360w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/driveway-sealing-for-winter-240x163.jpg 240w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/driveway-sealing-for-winter.jpg 1383w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/h2>\n<p>The cold winter and snow plowing will only make any holes in your driveway larger because of the freeze and thawing of water on your driveway.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>12. Turn off, maintain and close other systems<\/h2>\n<h2><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright wp-image-2043 size-medium col-xs-12 col-sm-4\" src=\"https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/pool-pump-off.jpg\" alt=\"turn off pool pump\" width=\"300\" height=\"206\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/pool-pump-off-300x206.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/pool-pump-off-768x526.jpg 768w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/pool-pump-off-1024x702.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/pool-pump-off-960x658.jpg 960w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/pool-pump-off-720x493.jpg 720w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/pool-pump-off-480x329.jpg 480w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/pool-pump-off-360x247.jpg 360w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/pool-pump-off-240x164.jpg 240w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/11\/pool-pump-off.jpg 1382w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/h2>\n<p>Turn off other systems specific to your home, including your pool, outdoor lighting, trampolines, etc.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>13. Consider interior painting for your holiday parties and guests.<\/h2>\n<h2><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright wp-image-1854 size-medium col-xs-12 col-sm-4\" src=\"https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/05\/interior-painting-header.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"157\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/05\/interior-painting-header-300x157.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/05\/interior-painting-header-768x401.jpg 768w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/05\/interior-painting-header-1024x535.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/05\/interior-painting-header.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/05\/interior-painting-header-1440x752.jpg 1440w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/05\/interior-painting-header-960x502.jpg 960w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/05\/interior-painting-header-720x376.jpg 720w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/05\/interior-painting-header-480x251.jpg 480w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/05\/interior-painting-header-360x188.jpg 360w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/05\/interior-painting-header-240x125.jpg 240w, https:\/\/pub-9fc1f065f07e441b8f35365c774f09ae.r2.dev\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2019\/05\/interior-painting-header-915x477.jpg 915w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/h2>\n<p>If you\u2019re unsure about choosing paint color(s), we have <a href=\"https:\/\/certapro.com\/boston-south-shore\/paint-color-consulting\/\">designers on staff<\/a> to work with you.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>14. See our <a href=\"https:\/\/certapro.com\/boston-south-shore\/community\/masters-south-shore-list\/\">&#8220;Masters of the South Shore&#8221;<\/a> list if you need a service provider.<\/h2>\n<h2><\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/boston-south-shore.certapro.com\/community\/masters-south-shore-list\/\">These are companies<\/a> we have tried ourselves and who we feel confident recommending.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/certapro.com\/boston-south-shore\/community\/helpful-resources\/\"><strong>&lt; BACK TO OUR INDEX OF ARTICLES, TIPS, AND ADVICE<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h3><strong>You also might like to read:<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/certapro.com\/boston-south-shore\/community\/how-late-in-the-fall-can-i-paint-my-exterior\/\">How late in the fall can I paint my home?<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/certapro.com\/boston-south-shore\/community\/what-can-i-do-in-the-winter-to-prepare-my-home-for-spring\/\">Winter projects we can help you tackle.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div class=\"bss-authorbox\">\n<div class=\"authorbox-left\">\n<div class=\"authorbox-left\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/certapro.com\/boston-south-shore\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/1237\/2022\/02\/Screen-Shot-2023-02-05-at-12.40.04-PM-150x150.png\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"authorbox-right\">\n<h3>Written by: Paige NeJame &#8211; Franchise Owner<\/h3>\n<p class=\"biolink\"><a href=\"https:\/\/certapro.com\/boston-south-shore\/our-team\/paige-nejame\/\">View Bio<\/a><\/p>\n<p style=\"margin-bottom: 0px;font-size: 13px\">Meredith \u201cPaige\u201d NeJame is nationally known in the painting community and has written and published dozens of articles about painting and running a small business for publications such as <em>The Washington Post, Forbes, Sherwin Williams&#8217; blog,\u00a0<\/em>and<em> Apartment Therapy.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>1. Clean your gutters Clean gutters not blocked by leaves, pine needles, and debris are less likely to cause ice dams in the wintertime. Consider getting a \u201cgutter helmet\u201d to help prevent future debris from clogging up your gutters. Gutters need painting? &#8211; Here&#8217;s how to DIY this: For DIY-ers &#8211; leave the gutters in<a class=\"read-more-link\" href=\"https:\/\/certapro.com\/boston-south-shore\/community\/fall-maintenance-checklist\/\">Read the full article <em class=\"fa fa-angle-double-right\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/em><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":41,"featured_media":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","template":"","format":"standard","categories":[],"tags":[227,273],"class_list":["post-2030","community","type-community","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","tag-residential-painting","tag-tips"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/certapro.com\/boston-south-shore\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/community\/2030","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/certapro.com\/boston-south-shore\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/community"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/certapro.com\/boston-south-shore\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/community"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/certapro.com\/boston-south-shore\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/41"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/certapro.com\/boston-south-shore\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2030"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/certapro.com\/boston-south-shore\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/community\/2030\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/certapro.com\/boston-south-shore\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2030"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/certapro.com\/boston-south-shore\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2030"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/certapro.com\/boston-south-shore\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2030"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}