Dear Monica: Can you recommend maintenance items a homeowner should do to be ready for winter rain? Sarah C.

 

Dear Sarah: If you own a home, no matter how old or new it is, you should continually maintain it. The big items are to make sure the roof is watertight and that the exterior paint is in good condition. The recent storm confirmed the need to do this. 

 

You should not defer maintenance on the inside of your house either. Clean your heating ducts so that you aren’t blowing dirt around when you turn the heat on. Clean your dryer vent too so the lint doesn’t ignite a fire. Keep your home clean and it will look good for a long time.