Your Fall Home Maintenance Checklist to get your home winter-ready

There’s a slight chill in the air and you know what that means – winter is on its way. 

As you conduct your annual autumn chores of raking leaves and putting away your swimsuits to make room for sweaters, take some time to focus on preparing your home for winter and beyond. 

The following are some fall and winter home tasks to add to your to-do list: 

Ensure your windows and doors are sealed, insulated and energy-efficient

Properly sealing and insulating your windows and doors is essential for maintaining a comfortable and energy-efficient home. Here are some steps to help you prevent moisture and cold air from entering your home. 

First, check for air leaks by inspecting your windows and doors for any visible gaps or drafts. Look for cracks and openings around the window and door frames. If any are found, use caulking to seal any gaps or cracks you find around windows, door frames, and other penetrations. Silicone or acrylic latex caulk is typically used for sealing windows and doors. Make sure to apply a smooth and even bead of caulk to create an airtight seal.

For added energy efficiency, consider Window Replacement. Riverhead Building Supply has replacement solutions from Andersen Windows and Marvin Windows to suit any style of home. For example, if your home has Andersen Narroline double-hung windows, we have a replacement kit that makes replacing windows quick and easy, and we can even do it for you. You’ll get brand new Andersen double hung windows, with very little disruption to your home. The windows fit into your existing frame so that siding or drywall and trim is not disturbed. The new windows give you better energy efficiency year round, as well as new warranties on glass and parts. Find out more by contacting our installation department.

Installing storm windows or doors can provide an extra layer of insulation, particularly for older windows and doors. They create a buffer zone that helps to reduce heat transfer. Call us now to install a new Andersen Storm door over your entry door. It’s an affordable option that can reduce heat loss, and provides more light in your home on milder days. The Andersen 8 Series storm door has a retractable screen  – go from weather protection to ventilation without having to remove and store a panel. The storm door is weatherstripped on the top, bottom, and sides to help reduce drafts.

Properly sealed and insulated windows and doors can significantly improve your home’s energy efficiency, reduce heating and cooling costs, and make your living spaces more comfortable. It’s an investment that can pay off in terms of both comfort and energy savings.

If you are in need of replacement windows, visit your local Riverhead Building Supply Showroom 

Check your heating system 

Have your heating system cleaned and serviced. Clean or replace filters in your HVAC system or air purifiers. If you use a fireplace regularly in the winter, have your chimney cleaned and professionally inspected.  Test your home’s smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries. When it comes to safety, you can never be too prepared. 

Assess your home toolkit and ensure you have those “must-have” tools 

Even if you are not a serious DIYer, every homeowner should have a collection of hand tools and power tools to tackle small repairs or tasks around the house. Save money by doing some simple jobs yourself. 

Whether you want to hang up a picture, fix a leaky faucet, or assemble a chair, having a well-equipped home toolkit will help ensure that you have quick access to the tools required to complete your project. 

Some tools to consider for your home toolkit include a drill, a hammer, screwdriver and wrench sets, and a hand saw. When choosing your tools, look for premium brands such as Stanley, DEWALT, Bostitch® and Makita that manufacture quality products that will make your work easier.  A basic hammer is something everyone should have, choose the one that’s comfortable for you from our selection of different weights and types in stock. This DeWalt cordless drill kit with 20V atomic battery will help you power through home tasks with ease. And no home should be without a set of screwdrivers, or this handy Lutz 15-in-one screwdriver that is a true multi-tasker.

Add insulation

A well-insulated home is crucial for the cold winter months. Adequate insulation will help you stay comfortable and make your home more energy efficient. If you need more insulation, don’t wait until you feel an icy breeze in your bedroom. Add spray foam insulation now to fill in gaps between wall and attic framing studs. You’ll keep frigid air out and your heating costs down. Check your pipes, and add pipe insulation if needed.

Inspect your roof; clean gutters and downspouts

Maintaining your roof and gutters is essential to protect your home from water damage andensure its longevity. First, examine your roof for loose or damaged shingles. Look for signs of missing, curling, cracked, or broken shingles. Pay attention to any shingle granules in your gutters, as excessive granule loss can indicate shingle wear.  If you find damaged shingles, replace them promptly with one of the many GAF shingles we have in stock.

Be sure to check the flashing around roof penetrations, like chimneys, vents, and skylights taking notice that the seals are intact and not cracked as damaged flashing can lead to leaks. 

Make sure to remove leaves, branches, and other debris from your roof and gutters, as they can trap moisture and accelerate shingle deterioration and water damage.  In addition, check the slope and alignment on gutters and downspouts and adjust if necessary. Make sure the gutters are securely attached to your fascia and properly aligned.

Keep pests out in the cold

Check the exterior of your home and garage for small gaps or cracks that could allow mice, squirrels, or other pests to get inside.

Drain outdoor faucets

Disconnect and store hoses; shut off outdoor faucets; and drain any remaining water to prevent frozen pipes. Check pipes in unheated spaces inside, such as crawl spaces, to make sure they are insulated.

Test outdoor lighting

It’s getting dark earlier, make sure you have adequate outdoor lighting to illuminate walkways and your driveway. Test everything to make sure all lights are working and pointed in the right direction to keep you and your visitors safe.  

Store or cover outdoor furniture

Store outdoor furniture, or cover it for the winter to protect it from the elements.

This fall maintenance checklist can help you to get started on preparing your home for colder weather, ensuring that your home is comfortable, safe and energy efficient throughout the winter. Need help with window replacement installation, roofing, insulation or other ways to winterize your home? Visit a Riverhead Building Supply location or contact us today and our team of experts can help guide you. 

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What are pergolas?

A pergola is an outdoor structure that may be freestanding or attached to a home or building. It consists of an open lattice grid of cross beams and rafters supported by columns and does not have any walls. Pergolas can be found gracing patios, decks, gardens, and parks and are often adorned by climbing plants and flowers.  Pergolas are commonly constructed of cedar, redwood, and mahogany wood, as well as durable vinyl and PVC.

While pergolas are undeniably visually appealing, they have many other advantages besides aesthetics:

Do Pergolas Provide Shade?

A pergola can make your outdoor space more comfortable. It allows light in, while also providing some shade. Enjoy a view of the sky without having direct sunlight beating down on you and your guests.
If you would like a more fully shaded area, you can add an all-weather fabric shade cover or canopy to the top of the pergola. For additional protection from the sun, wind and other weather elements – and to give your pergola a very romantic feel – fabric can also be installed between the vertical posts.

Extend your garden

Pergolas are designed to be beautiful on their own but are especially pretty when used as a trellis for hanging plants and climbing vines and flowers. Some of the most popular vines grown on pergolas include clematis, trumpet vine, climbing roses, ivy, honeysuckle and wisteria. Once the vines fill in and cover the top of the pergola, you’ll have a stunning natural canopy of shade, creating a lovely, peaceful oasis right in your own backyard.

Define space

Similar to pavers or a deck, a pergola can define your outdoor living space. A pergola is an open, airy and attractive solution for establishing an entertainment or dining area.

Add value

A well-built, well-maintained pergola can make your home more visually appealing, which can help increase the value of your home.
Riverhead Building Supply is an authorized dealer of INTEX Vinyl & PVC Pergola Systems and uses INTEX Millwork Solutions Pergola Systems for all custom pergola and patio trellis projects. These durable high-quality materials are virtually maintenance free and will last for years. We also have the lumber supplies and fasteners you need to build all types of wood pergolas.  Contact our team today to find out how easy it is to add the perfect pergola to your home’s outdoor living area.

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Fencing Considerations

There are many types of fencing to choose from. Keeping in mind the following questions can help you evaluate your fence choices and decide on the one best suited for your requirements:

The end use:

• • Is the fence intended to be a decorative, i.e., part of the landscaping?
  • Do you need a temporary fence?
  • Do you need a fence that provides privacy?
  • Is the fence needed for the safety of children or pets?

The upkeep:

• • Will the fence material need to be painted or stained?
  • How long will the fence material last?
  • What type of cleaning or maintenance will need to be done, and how often?

The installation:

• • Is the fence easy to install, or is skilled help required?
  • What types of fence posts or supports are required?
  • How much material is required?

Other considerations:

• • Does the fence need to meet certain building codes? For example, fencing around a pool may need to be of a minimum height; gates may need to have special locking mechanisms.
  • Are there homeowner’s association (HOA) rules or regulations pertaining to fencing?
  • Are you aware of your property lines and utility locations?
  • What is your overall budget?

Types of Fencing

A fence is an investment in safety, security and privacy, and can also enhance the look of your landscape. Fencing can give you peace of mind by helping keep small children and pets within your property boundary, and intruders and wildlife out.
Here are some of the fencing products you will find at Riverhead Building Supply locations on Long Island and in New England:

Temporary Fencing

Temporary fencing is primarily used to provide protection and security at construction sites and may be necessary for adhering to safety and health requirements. Riverhead Building Supply carries a large selection of temporary fencing materials including:

• • Orange safety fencing – Blocks off constructions sites.
  • Silt fence – Provides sediment control and protects areas around construction sites from runoff.
  • Snow fencing – Guides the accumulation of snow either away or toward designated areas.

Animal Control Fencing

Safeguard your property from deer, rabbits, and other wildlife with animal control fencing.  We have deer fencing and chicken and turkey wire in a variety of sizes.

Yard Fencing

Fencing can add beauty and character to your landscape while defining the borders of your property.  It gives you privacy from your neighbors, deters trespassing, and helps prevent young children and pets from wandering outside of your yard or into a pool area. Riverhead Building Supply has many types of high quality fencing materials that will meet your functional and aesthetic needs.

Lattice fencing

• • Lattice fencing featuring a square or diagonal pattern is an attractive option for privacy or semi-privacy.  Our lattice fencing is available in the following materials:
  • White Permalatt vinyl – Resists mold, mildew and insects and won’t peel, warp, chip or splinter. Other colors are available through special order.
  • Clear cedar – Durable, can withstand harsh weather conditions and can be sealed, painted and stained.
  • Pressure-treated wood – An affordable, rot- and insect-resistant fencing option that can be sealed, painted and stained.

Rustic split rail fencing

• • Create a rustic look with rustic split rail fencing made of durable, rot-resistant locust wood. Our split rail fencing components consist of Locust 2- and 3-hole line, corner or end posts, and hardwood rails. Split rail fencing is also suitable to fence in horses or livestock.
  • #1 spruce stockade fence
  • Maintain privacy with our light-colored spruce stockade fencing, made with #1 spruce. Unlike many other types of stockade fences, ours has a third cross member in the middle which provides extra stability and support.

Pool surround

• • Provide a secure barrier around your pool with PVC-coated welded wire fencing.

Riverhead Building Supply provides the highest quality commercial and residential fencing supplies to make your work easier and your projects a success. In addition to an array of fencing products, our locations also have railings for porches and decks, and our expert team can help you select and order gates, arbors and pergolas to suit your need.  Visit a store near you and start planning your new project today!

The post Popular Types of Fencing For Contractors and Homeowners appeared first on Riverhead Building Supply.

Sale Details:

Save 10% on all stock decking and railing products from Timbertech and Azek

• TimberTech Legacy
• TimberTech Tropical
• TimberTech Terrain
• TimberTech TwinFinish
• TimberTech Reliaboard (gray only)
• AZEK Vintage
• AZEK Harvest
• Radiance Rail
• Radiance Rail Express
• Trademark Rail
• Premier Rail
• CONCEALoc and TOPLoc Fasteners
• Cortex (color matched plugs only)
• Decklites

 Sale on stock products and colors only.

All decking products on sale are low maintenance products

TimberTech and AZEK are:

• Durable (do not crack or splinter)
• Insect resistant
• Rot resistant

They also have fade and stain warranties (on the decking boards) so you know they’ll keep their color and attractive appearance for years of use.
Buying during our sale means you’ll get more for your money, including more free time to relax on your deck instead of repairing, staining etc.
Cleaning and general maintenance is always recommended, but there is far less upkeep than a natural wood deck.

The post Save Big at our Mid-Summer Decking Sale appeared first on Riverhead Building Supply.