Preparing Your Home for Fall Storms in Utah's Mountains

7/24/2023 (Permalink)

Utah Mountains

As the vibrant colors of summer give way to the golden hues of fall, residents of Utah's mountainous regions are well aware of the impending seasonal shift. With the changing leaves and crisp air, however, also comes the possibility of fall storms, which can bring heavy rain, strong winds, and even snow to the higher elevations. Homeowners in these areas must be proactive in preparing their properties to weather the elements and safeguard their loved ones and belongings. In this blog, we will explore some essential steps that homeowners can take to brace themselves for the fall storms and ensure their homes remain safe and secure during this time.

1. Inspect the Roof and Gutters

One of the first areas to check in preparation for fall storms is the roof. Inspect for any damaged or missing shingles, as these can lead to leaks during heavy rain or snowfall. Address any issues promptly to avoid potential water damage. Additionally, ensure that the gutters and downspouts are clear of debris to allow rainwater to flow freely away from the house. Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow and pool near the foundation, potentially leading to water infiltration.

2. Trim Trees and Shrubs

Tall trees and overgrown shrubs can become a hazard during strong winds. Before the fall storms arrive, trim any branches that are close to the house or powerlines. This will reduce the risk of branches breaking off and causing damage. Additionally, clearing out dead vegetation around the property can help minimize fire hazards during dry spells that may accompany fall weather.

3. Reinforce Windows and Doors

Sealing gaps around windows and doors is an essential step in preparing for fall storms. Use weatherstripping and caulking to keep cold drafts out and maintain the warmth inside your home. Consider installing storm shutters or boarding up windows if you anticipate severe weather conditions. Secure any loose outdoor furniture or equipment that could become airborne during high winds.

4. Check Heating Systems

As fall temperatures drop, ensuring your heating systems are in good working condition is vital. Have your furnace or heating system inspected and serviced by a professional to guarantee it will keep your home cozy during cooler days and nights. Clean or replace filters regularly to improve efficiency and indoor air quality.

5. Stock Up on Emergency Supplies

Be prepared for potential power outages or being snowed in by stocking up on emergency supplies. Create an emergency kit with essentials like flashlights, batteries, bottled water, non-perishable food items, first aid supplies, and blankets. It's also wise to have a battery-powered radio to stay informed about weather updates and any emergency alerts.

6. Reinforce the Garage and Shed

If you have a garage or shed, ensure that the doors are properly secured and able to withstand strong winds. Reinforce the structure if necessary, and consider moving valuable or fragile items to a safer location within your home. Secure any outdoor tools or equipment to prevent them from becoming projectiles during a storm.

Conclusion

Utah's mountainous regions offer breathtaking scenery year-round, but the beauty of fall can be accompanied by unpredictable storms. By taking the time to prepare your home for the changing weather, you can protect your property and loved ones from potential harm. Inspect the roof and gutters, trim trees and shrubs, reinforce windows and doors, check heating systems, and stock up on emergency supplies. With these precautions in place, you can face fall storms with confidence, knowing that you've done your best to safeguard your home and family during this beautiful yet challenging season.

Your QuaranCleaning Might Not Be Enough

2/18/2021 (Permalink)

Carpet

Many of us are home. Restaurants, churches, movie theaters, and even parks are closed. Social distancing is vital to our health and safety, so we’re all making the smart choice to stay inside. Some are baking. Others are binge-watching. But many of us are organizing and cleaning. The Centers For Disease Control encourages cleaning counters, tabletops, doorknobs, and other high-touch surfaces with a hospital-grade disinfectant. Do that. Keep you and your family safe, but what are we supposed to do about our carpets?

Kids, pets, furniture, and regular foot traffic create plenty of wear and tear. If you or your guests fail to leave shoes at the door, who knows what we drag in. Regular vacuuming helps, but here are just a few issues you need to think about:

Mold

Gross with a capital G! What makes a carpet great is how soft and plush it is. That’s also what makes it a haven for moisture and bacteria. In almost every case, carpet will absorb fluid faster than we can blot it dry. That liquid infiltrates deep down into the fibers and pad. That creates odors, leaves behind stains, but, most damaging of all, the dampness creates a fertile breeding ground for mold spores.

Pollen

Spring is wonderful. It is warmer but not too hot. The sun lingers a little longer every evening. And there is nothing better than a sweet spring breeze. Unfortunately, that breeze carries loads of pollen. Open windows, open doors, and even our clothes bring in pollen from the great outdoors and allow it to settle on the carpet. Anyone who suffers from allergies knows how distressing that dust can be.

Skin

People shed skin. It is just a messy matter of human biology. Some medical experts say we shed as much as 1.5 million skin flakes each day. Those flakes fall someplace, and that place is the floor and, more specifically, our carpets. Yuck. But it gets even worse. Most every house has dust mites, a major factor for indoor allergies, and dust mites feast on that stuff.

Dirt

This one is pretty obvious. We track it in. The dog brings it in. Open doors and windows bring it in. Dirt is an inescapable fact of life. If you have darker carpet or flooring, the stains might not be obvious. But they still often harbor all the bad stuff we do not want to ruin our carpets and possibly make us sick.

Keep Carpets Clean!

These are manageable challenges. Vacuum your carpets twice a week if possible. Also, have them professionally cleaned on a yearly basis (maybe more if you have pets, young children, or a lot of visitors or gathering). This not only removes all the allergens, muck, and grime that builds up in even the tidiest of homes, it extends the life of the carpet. They are an expensive investment. A little money spent now can save plenty in the long run. Click here for more information on our residential carpet cleaning services.

Safety for the holidays.

11/14/2017 (Permalink)

For many people November is a time to enjoy cooler temperatures, beautifully colored leaves and family oriented get togethers, like Thanksgiving. While you are busy whipping up delicious dishes, it is also important to take time to remember safety.

Cooking fires are the leading cause of home fires and home fire-related injuries in the United States. The National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) reports U.S. fire departments respond to an average of 357,000 home structure fires each year. 45% of these fires are attributed to home cooking fires. These fires are also responsible for thousands of injuries and more than $6.9 billion in property damage each year.

Please remember to be safe and take precautions during the upcoming holiday season.