Anian Tunney, Piedmont CA Real Estate Agent: Get your House Ready for El Nino!

All of the meteorologists are saying that we should expect an El Nino this winter, which means lots of rain and wind and possibly flooding. If you remember the El Nino of 1998, you know that being prepared is the best defense.

Here are some great tips from the experts at Residential Specialist magazine:

Seal It Up--Use caulk to seal around exterior doors and window frames. Also check the areas where pipes and wiring enter the home and make sure those openings are also sealed with water-proof chaulk. Heat escapes from these gaps, but water can also enter, which can cause mold problems and structural damage. Water-proof caulk can be purchased at any hardware store, or contact your favorite handy-man.

Check the Roof--Now is the time to check for loose, damaged or missing shingles, which can be a source of leaks into the attic and into your home, causing unsightly damage and the need for expensive repairs. You can do a preliminary inspection yourself from the ground using binoculars, but it is best to call a roof specialist and schedule a formal inspection.

Clear It Out--Clear gutters and eaves of leaves, sticks and other debris so water can flow through and down the spouts and not down the walls and into your home. Your handi-man or gardener can help you out with this.

Furnace Inspection--PG&E provides furnace inspection services for it’s customers, be sure to call them as soon as possible to avoid a long wait. Filters should also be either cleaned or replaced.

Chimney Check--If you love a cozy fire in the Fall and Winter, be sure to have your chimney inspected and cleaned on a yearly basis. This will keep your home safe from a creosote fire risk, and from dangerous excessive smoke build-up in your home if the chimney is blocked. A clean chimney can also prevent roof fires from creosote sparks.

~Anian Tunney, Piedmont CA Real Estate Agent, The Grubb Company, Oakland, CA Company Wide Top Producing Agent for 2014 and 129th in volume in the country for 2014. AnianTunney.com