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OCTOBER 2018 HOME 15 DISCOUNT REAL ESTATE COMPANY www.metrorealtyhouses.com List for Less with Metro Realty Group Jeff & Tammy Tekaver Metro Realty Group Est. 2002 Licensed Agents Since 1991 3044 S. 92nd St., West Allis, WI 53227 Office: 414-546-1771 Cell: 414-333-3904 Tekaver123@aol.com List for Less! Commission structures start as low as Contact us for details. 3 % Curious to find out the value of your home? Find out for FREE! Call us today! MENTION THIS AD TO RECEIVE A $500 DISCOUNT! If boots, a warm hat and a tuned-up snow blower are the only items on your winter preparation list, your home main- tenance plan may need a makeover. These simple home maintenance projects can help lower your energy bills, prevent more costly repairs and increase the lifespan of your home. 1. Heating and ventilation — Examine your fireplace and chimney system to ensure that no soot or creosote has collect- ed. Any cracks or voids could potentially cause a fire. Before you turn the furnace or boiler on, replace the air filter and hire a professional to inspect the unit more thoroughly. These steps will improve the efficiency and life of your furnace and will ensure stable indoor air quality. 2. Seal windows and doors — If not properly sealed, windows and doors can be a major culprit for heat loss. To keep the war m air inside, inspect the weather- stripping around your home's windows and doors for leaks, rot or decay. Repair or replace structural framing, and caulk inside and out, if necessary. 3. Insulate well — One of the easiest and most effective defenses against heat loss is proper insulation. Prevent cold drafts from entering and the loss of heated air through basement headers, which, when left exposed, can make your furnace work harder. Look for a moisture-resistant product offering high thermal perform- ance, such as Roxul Comfortbatt insula- tion. This type of mineral wool insulation makes installation simple. All that's need- ed is a serrated blade or bread knife. Cut the batt to fit the cavity and press into place. The insulation will help improve energy efficiency as soon as it's in place and provide savings over the lifetime of your home. Comfortbatt can also be used to top or replace old attic insulation. Aim for an R-50 or a depth of 16 inches. 4. Backyard care — Save your property from potential damage by trimming over- grown trees and shrubs to prevent ice- laden branches from thrashing against electrical wires and your home's exterior. Drain/shut off any exterior faucets and sprinkler systems to prevent freezing. Ensure rain or snow drains away from the house to avoid foundation problems. 5. Roof and gutters — Inspect your roof for shingles that are warped, dam- aged or even missing to prevent a future leak. Use roofing cement and a caulking gun to seal joints where water could pene- trate, such as around the chimney, sky- lights or vent pipes. Make sure that your gutters and downspouts are securely fas- tened. Downspouts should extend at least five feet away from the home to prevent flooding. When it comes to preventative mainte- nance, a little time and effort can save thousands in energy costs and repair bills over the lifetime of your home. 5 simple projects will help keep your family warm and save money Get your home ready for late fall, winter Submitted photo Protect your home — inside and outside — with some preventive maintenance before winter arrives