There’s nothing like sipping a cold drink on your backyard deck, soaking up the sunshine or hosting a summer barbecue with friends. But before you roll out the grill and string up the lights, it’s time to show your deck a little love. Whether it’s blazing sun, pouring rain, heavy snow, or constant foot traffic, your deck weathers it all—and proper maintenance is the key to keeping it safe, sturdy, and looking its best. Ready to give your deck the TLC it deserves? Let’s dive in!
Know Your Type of Deck
Before you start, it’s important to know what kind of deck you have. Different materials require different levels of care.
Wood Decks: These are traditional and beautiful but need the most maintenance. Hardwoods like cedar, redwood, and teak are more durable than softwoods like pine and fir.
Composite Decks: Made from wood fibers and plastic, these are lower-maintenance and usually come with UV protection built in. However, they still require periodic cleaning and inspection.
Summer Deck Maintenance
Now is the perfect time to inspect, clean, and reseal your deck as part of summer home maintenance. Here’s your seasonal to-do list:
1. Inspect and Repair
Your first step should be a thorough inspection:
Check for damage such as cracked, warped, or splintering boards.
Look for discoloration, rot, and peeling. Soft, spongy areas or visible decay could mean the wood is rotting.
Inspect fasteners. Tighten loose screws and replace any that are rusty.
Examine the flashing—the water barrier where your deck attaches to the house. Damaged or missing flashing can lead to major water issues.
Ensure that stairs and handrails are stable and secure.
Warning signs your deck may need replacing:
Severe rot or decay
Multiple loose or broken boards
Deep discoloration or widespread splintering
Rusty or failing hardware
Make minor repairs now to prevent costly fixes later.
2. Clean Your Deck the Right Way
Before you clean, protect nearby plants by covering them with a breathable tarp. Many deck cleaning products contain chemicals that can harm vegetation.
Remove all furniture, plants, and décor.
Sweep off leaves, dirt, and debris.
Spray down the deck with a garden hose using a strong stream.
Apply a wood-safe cleaner or a composite-safe cleaner according to the product instructions. You can also use warm soapy water.
Scrub using a stiff-bristled brush.
Rinse thoroughly and let dry completely before applying any sealant or stain.
Pro Tip: Avoid using chlorine bleach—it can damage wood and composite decks. For stubborn stains on a wood deck, make a paste of baking soda and water, apply it to the stain, let it sit, then scrub and rinse. For composite decks, try a composite-safe cleaner.
Power washing caution: You can power wash occasionally, but not every year. Used incorrectly, a pressure washer can gouge wood and composite decks, and cause more harm than good. When in doubt, a hose with a hard spray setting often does the trick.
3. Seal and Stain (for Wood Decks)
Sealing and staining are critical to protect your wood deck from sun, moisture, and wear. (Composite decks do not need to be stained or sealed.)
Frequency: Seal every 1–2 years, depending on the product and your climate.
Timing: Make sure your deck is clean and completely dry. Sand any splintered or rough areas before you begin.
Product selection:
Choose a UV-protective stain that complements your home’s exterior.
Use a clear or semi-transparent sealant with strong water resistance.
Avoid paint—while it may look good initially, it tends to crack, peel, and deteriorate quickly on deck surfaces.
Application tips:
Follow the wood grain to prevent streaks.
Use a brush, roller, or sprayer to apply an even coat.
Apply in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid direct sun, which can cause uneven drying.
4. Deck-Safe Furnishings and Accessories
Your furniture and décor choices can impact your deck’s longevity.
Skip natural fiber rugs (like jute or bamboo). These absorb moisture and promote mildew. Opt for synthetic, quick-drying outdoor rugs instead.
Protect your deck from grill heat. Place grills on a nonflammable grill pad or mat to prevent grease stains and fire risks. Practice grill safety.
Use furniture with rubber or plastic feet to prevent scratching or gouging the surface.
Year-Round Deck Care Tips
While summer is deck maintenance season, a few habits year-round can help preserve your investment:
Sweep regularly to prevent leaves and debris buildup, which can cause staining and mildew.
Shovel snow carefully in winter using a plastic shovel and always with the grain of the boards.
Trim nearby trees and bushes to reduce moisture buildup and leaf litter.
Your deck is an extension of your home—and like any living space, it deserves care and attention. By inspecting it annually, cleaning it regularly, and sealing it as needed, you can enjoy a beautiful, safe, and functional outdoor retreat for years to come.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
Is your backyard begging for a summer glow-up? Whether you’re dreaming of sunset dinners under twinkle lights, weekend BBQs with friends, or just a quiet oasis to sip your morning coffee, now’s the perfect time to turn that outdoor space into your personal slice of paradise. As you spruce things up, don’t forget the essentials—like safe grilling practices, checking your deck for wear and tear, and making sure your outdoor setup is as secure as it is stylish. A little planning now means more peace of mind—and more time to kick back and enjoy summer under the sun.
Refresh Your Patio or Deck
Your patio or deck sets the stage for everything from quiet mornings to lively get-togethers. Start by giving it a thorough clean:
Sweep away debris. Use a broom or blower to clear leaves and dirt.
Wash the surface. A gentle cleanser and stiff brush work well on most patio materials. For concrete, brick, or stone, consider renting a commercial-grade power washer. Avoid power washing stained wood—it could strip the finish.
Inspect and repair. Check for loose boards, protruding nails, or splintered surfaces. Make necessary repairs before the space gets regular use.
Clean and Style Outdoor Furniture
Outdoor furniture can take a beating over the seasons. Give it some love:
Clean according to material. A hose and mild dish soap work well for plastic and metal furniture. For wood or wicker, use a damp cloth to avoid water damage.
Dry thoroughly. Use old towels to prevent water spots and prolong the life of your pieces.
Once clean, it’s time to rethink your layout and decor.
Envision How You’ll Use the Space
Think about how your outdoor area will serve you this summer. Will it be:
A dining spot? Add or update a table and chairs for al fresco meals.
A game zone? Leave room for yard games and flexible seating.
A cozy retreat? Set up a hammock, reading nook, or fire pit lounge.
Consider lightweight furniture that can be easily rearranged depending on the occasion. And remember—comfort is key. Add cushions, throws, and cozy seating to encourage lingering.
Streamline and Elevate with Smart Decor
Keep clutter in check by choosing multi-purpose pieces, like:
Benches with storage or outdoor storage bins. Great for stashing games, cushions, or grilling supplies.
Plants and greenery. Choose pet-safe plants for your own fur babies or visiting ones.
Vertical accents. Use walls or fences to hang lanterns, shelves, or planters—leaving more ground space open.
Add personality with pops of color—pillows, cushions or a bold outdoor rug can instantly refresh the vibe.
Shade and Light: Must-Haves for Comfort and Style
Don’t forget about two key ingredients to outdoor enjoyment: shade and lighting.
Shade solutions: Umbrellas, pergolas, or canopies offer protection during peak sun hours.
Lighting layers: String lights bring magical ambiance. Solar-powered fairy lights, path markers, and outdoor pendant fixtures add both safety and charm.
Fire Pits & Grilling: Safety First, Fun Always
Fire Pit Safety: A fire pit is the ultimate backyard upgrade, but it must be used safely.
Keep it at least 10 feet from your house or flammable materials.
Burn only untreated, dry wood.
Never use accelerants like lighter fluid to start or relight the fire.
Use a fire screen to catch sparks.
Keep a fire extinguisher, hose, or bucket of water nearby.
Grill Safety: Summer barbecues are a beloved tradition—but don’t forget basic safety.
Bar cart transformation: Repurpose a bar cart as a mobile grilling station. Load it with spices, utensils, and condiments.
DIY condiment carrier: Give those cardboard six-pack beer caddies new life as a picnic-friendly condiment holder. Wrap it in contact paper for a stylish touch.
Don’t Forget Bug Control
Nothing ruins a backyard vibe faster than a buggy swarm. Take steps to protect your space:
Remove standing water. Check flowerpots, gutters, and birdbaths regularly.
Use citronella candles or torches. These can help deter bugs while adding ambiance.
Consider natural repellents. Lavender, rosemary, and marigolds are mosquito-resistant and look great in planters.
For added peace of mind, you can install a screened canopy or consider a misting system for high-traffic areas.
Your outdoor space should be an extension of your home—a place to relax, connect, and create lasting summer memories. With a little effort and intentional design, you can transform your backyard into a functional and fabulous retreat.
Pro tip: Take a few photos now, then again at the end of summer. You’ll love seeing how your outdoor makeover paid off.
Finally, make sure you’re insured for summer fun, and protect your home and property with the right insurance for added peace of mind. Here’s to your best backyard summer yet!
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
If clutter has crept into every corner of your home, spring is your golden opportunity to clear it out and start fresh. This season isn’t just about cleaning—it’s about creating space for what truly matters. Whether you’re dreaming of tidy shelves, organized closets, or just a little more breathing room, these smart decluttering tips will help you reduce the mess and refresh your mindset.
Where to Start
The clutter didn’t happen overnight—and it won’t disappear overnight either. That’s okay! Decluttering is a process, not a race. Here’s how to get started:
Pick one clutter hotspot—a shelf, drawer, or closet. Starting small builds momentum.
Set a timer for 15, 30, or 60 minutes—whatever works for you. This helps keep you focused and prevents burnout.
Take before-and-after photos. You’ll be amazed at the progress, and it’ll keep you motivated.
Enlist help. A friend or family member can make the process more fun—and help you decide what stays and what goes.
Create a home inventory. As you declutter, jot down big-ticket items or anything valuable. It can come in handy for insurance purposes.
Want a broader strategy? Check out our blog on Easy Ways to Declutter Your Home. For now, here are room-by-room tips to guide your spring-cleaning mission.
General Decluttering Tips
Use the Four-Box Method: Label boxes or bins as Trash, Give Away, Keep, and Relocate. Sort items accordingly.
Clear surfaces: Flat spaces attract clutter. Find permanent spots for items or consider letting them go.
Ditch the broken stuff: If it’s beyond repair (like a broken umbrella or snapped sunglasses), it’s time to toss it.
Let go of guilt items: If you’ve been holding on to something out of guilt—not love—donate it.
Entryway
Clear the catch-all zone: This area often becomes a drop zone. Use bins, hooks, or a small table to keep it tidy.
Sort the mail daily:
Open and sort as soon as you walk in.
Create a system for bills, items to respond to, and recycling.
Avoid the dreaded mail mountain!
Kitchen
Spices: Toss any older than a year. No scent = no flavor.
Refrigerator and freezer: Discard expired or mystery items.
Cookbooks: Keep only your go-to favorites. Donate the rest.
Takeout menus and condiments: Menus are online; sauces don’t last forever—ditch the extras.
Appliance manuals: Recycle any available manuals online. Organize your appliance warranties.
Specialty appliances: If you haven’t used it in the past year, it may be time to let it go.
Under the sink:
Organize essentials within reach.
Relocate overflow items to a closet or garage shelf.
Drawer clutter: Use dividers for utensils, tools, and gadgets.
Mugs: Keep your favorites. Donate duplicates.
Bathroom
Clear containers: Transparent acrylic bins let you see what you have.
Sort by category: Hair, dental, skincare, first aid—group like with like.
Makeup:
Mascara: Replace every 3 months
Foundation/Concealer: Replace annually
Lipstick, eyeshadow, blush: Replace every 2 years
Donate unused items in good condition.
Medications:
Dispose of expired or unidentifiable meds safely. Local police stations often have drop-off bins.
Eyewear: Donate old prescription glasses and frames.
Bedroom
Clothing
Organize by type: Lay out all jeans, skirts, or shirts. Keep what you love, donate the rest.
One-year rule: Haven’t worn it in a year? It’s probably time to part ways.
Donation bin: Keep a labeled bin in your closet so it’s easy to add items as you go.
Shoes and Socks
Toss worn-out or single shoes.
Donate pairs you haven’t worn in a year.
Bye-bye, lonely socks! Toss any that don’t have a match.
Playroom
Toys:
Donate those your child has outgrown.
Toss games with missing or broken parts.
Crafts:
Contain supplies to a shelf or bin.
Use small containers or drawer organizers for easy access.
Old paint: If it’s dried out or more than a few years old, it’s probably time to toss it (check local disposal guidelines).
Tools:
Hang them on utility racks or pegboards.
Organize by type and label for easy access.
Boxes: Go through those mystery boxes—keep what matters, recycle the rest.
Keep Clutter from Coming Back
One-in, one-out rule: For every new item you bring in, donate or discard one.
Daily donations: Give away one item per day—365 things gone in a year!
Avoid unnecessary freebies: Don’t bring home samples or giveaways unless you’ll use them.
Think before bulk buying: Only stock up on what you actually use regularly.
Reusable bags: Store them in your car so you don’t keep collecting new ones.
Evening reset: Take five minutes before bed to clear surfaces and put things back where they belong.
Spring is the perfect time to not only declutter but to reevaluate your protection at home. A clean, organized home paired with the right insurance coverage provides the ultimate peace of mind.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
Imagine catching a leaky roof before it becomes a flood or spotting a crack in the foundation before it threatens your home’s stability. A yearly home maintenance inspection empowers you to identify small issues early, saving you time, money, and headaches. With a simple checklist and a little effort, you can keep your home in tip-top shape and avoid costly surprises down the road. Use this list as your guide to stay ahead of potential problems.
Gather Your Supplies
Binoculars (for roof inspection)
Flashlight (for inspecting dimly lit spaces)
Ladder (to reach roofs, gutters, and higher areas)
Electrical tester (to check outlets and circuits; ask your local hardware store for guidance)
Moisture meter (to detect hidden dampness)
Screwdriver set (for tightening fixtures and covers)
Smartphone or camera (to document areas of concern)
Notepad and pen (for notetaking and listing repairs that need to be made)
If you’re not comfortable doing a home inspection yourself, consider hiring a professional home inspector. This typically costs about the same as when you hire an inspector to check out a home you’re going to buy. When you are ready to make repairs, and you cannot do them yourself, make sure to hire a reputable contractor.
Finally, your home is one of your greatest investments. Be sure to protect it with the right insurance for added peace of mind.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
Age may bring wisdom, but it also comes with new challenges behind the wheel. From adapting to changing reflexes to navigating the latest technology in cars, senior drivers face unique hurdles. If you are a senior driver, or know one, here are simple tips to help stay safe and confident on the road.
How does age affect your driving?
As we get older, changes in our bodies can affect how safely we drive. Stiff joints, muscle weakness, or arthritis can make it harder to turn your head, press the brakes, or react quickly in traffic. If you’ve lost some feeling in your fingers or feet, it might slow down your reaction time or make it harder to stay in control of the car. Vision changes can make it tough to see at night or read road signs quickly, and hearing loss might mean you don’t notice important sounds like sirens or horns. On top of that, some medications can cause drowsiness, dizziness, or slower reactions, which can all affect your driving.
Tip #1: Stay on top of your health.
Regularly check your vision, hearing, and mobility to ensure they’re not affecting your ability to drive safely. Minimize distractions, such as loud music or other sounds, to help you hear important traffic cues like horns or sirens.
If you have limited mobility, consider vehicle modifications. For example, hand controls can replace traditional gas and brake pedals if leg movement is a challenge. Consult with your doctor and an occupational therapist to explore your options.
Be mindful of how medications impact driving. Avoid driving if you’re taking anything that causes drowsiness or lightheadedness.
Tip #2: Make sure your car is the right fit for you.
If it’s an option, select larger dials and easy to read symbols on your car’s dashboard. Turn brightness up on your instrument panel so it is easy to see.
Adjust your seat so you’re not sitting closer than 10 inches to the steering wheel. Make sure your feet can easily press the pedals, without your having to reach with your toes. Pedal extensions are available for those who need it.
Check out the CarFit program sponsored by AAA, AARP Driver Safety, and AOTA (American Occupational Therapy Association). This program can help educate you on ways you can make your car more comfortable and safer as you age.
Tip #3: Understand your car’s safety technology.
Check your owner’s manual to determine the advanced safety technologies in your vehicle. This may include blind spot monitoring, automatic braking, lane-keeping assist, rearview camera, automatic crash notification, navigation, and more.
Seek help from tech-savvy family or friends who can explain features and help you practice. Watch online tutorials—many car manufacturers offer easy-to-follow videos on their websites or YouTube channels. You can also ask your dealer for a demonstration when servicing your car.
If new tech seems overwhelming, take it slow. Practice one new feature at a time to get comfortable with it. Start with the safety features like blind spot monitors. Don’t get discouraged as it can take time to learn new technology.
Tip #4: Drive safely and defensively.
Maintain a safe following distance. Avoid tailgating and give yourself plenty of space to react to sudden stops or changes in traffic. This is especially important in bad weather or heavy traffic.
Drive at a comfortable speed. Stick to the speed limit and, if you prefer driving slower, stay in the right lane to let faster traffic pass safely.
Stay focused and alert. Avoid distractions like using your phone, eating, or multitasking while driving. Never drink and drive and be mindful of any medications that might impair your ability to focus.
Tip #5: Avoid driving certain times of the day or night.
If driving at night feels difficult or uncomfortable, try to avoid it. Similarly, be cautious around sunrise and sunset when glare from the sun can impact your visibility.
Refrain from driving when you’re stressed, tired, or not feeling alert. Skip rush hour or heavy traffic areas to reduce stress and risk.
Avoid driving in rain, snow, ice, or other challenging weather conditions. Consider using rideshare services, public transportation, or asking for a ride from friends or family during these times.
Tip #6: Know how to deal with night driving.
Make sure your headlights, taillights, windshield and side windows are clean.
Allow for more space between you and the car in front to allow for additional stopping room – it’s harder to judge speed and distance in the dark.
If headlights of oncoming vehicles are too bright, look down and to the right. It will help deflect the light and you can use the right side of the road as your guide.
Do not wear sunglasses or tinted lenses at night. It reduces the amount of light that reaches your eyes and can make driving hazardous.
Tip #7: Take advantage of available support.
Refresh your knowledge of driving rules with a program like AAA’s RoadWise Driver Course. Completing the course may even qualify you for a discount with certain insurance providers.
Consider hiring a driving rehabilitation specialist. These professionals assess key factors such as muscle strength, flexibility, reaction time, and decision-making skills to help ensure safe driving.
Talk to trusted friends and family about your driving. Their honest feedback and support can help you identify areas for improvement and give you confidence behind the wheel.
Tip #8: Is it time to stop driving? Know the warning signs.
Be alert for warning signs such as multiple accidents, near-misses, or new scrapes and dents on the vehicle. Pay attention if you have received two or more tickets or warnings within the past two years.
Watch for signs of erratic, unsafe, or aggressive driving from your loved one, or if you’re the driver, for times you felt out of control.
Take seriously any recommendation from a doctor to change driving habits or stop driving altogether.
Approach the conversation with your loved one with empathy, focusing on positivity and support. Together, you can explore alternative ways to maintain their freedom and connection to the world around them.
Finally, make sure your car is fully protected for added peace of mind. Safe travels.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
Is your house trying to tell you something? From mysterious knocks to unsettling creaks, the noises in your home could be more than just background sounds—they might be early warnings of bigger issues. Listen closely, because ignoring these whispers from your walls could cost you more than a good night’s sleep.
Heating and Cooling Systems
Unusual sounds from your HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) system might mean that it’s struggling. Get these issues checked before you lose heat during the frigid winter months or cooling relief during the hottest time of year.
Squeaking or Squealing: Bearings in the motor may need oiling or a piece could be broken. You also could have a worn-out or misaligned fan belt. Ignoring this sound can lead to motor failure, so address this soon.
Whistling: This could be the sign of air leaks in the ductwork or a dirty air filter. Try replacing the filter first and see if the sound disappears. Filters should be replaced every three months.
Grinding: Moving parts aren’t operating smoothly or it could be worn-out bearings in the motor. Get that checked out.
Popping: This can indicate moisture or a clog in the gas line. It also could be expansion or contraction of the ductwork, especially when turning on the heat.
Clanking or Banging: This happens in air handlers or furnaces due to rusted or chipped metal, or soot buildup.
Clicking: A malfunctioning electrical relay could create a clicking sound.
Boiler Knocking: The circulation pump may be failing.
Hissing: This could signal a leak in the refrigerant line, or there could be an internal valve leak. The compressor pressure also could be too high.
Gurgling: You could be low on refrigerant or have a coolant leak.
Booming: There could be airflow issues where the ducts connect.
Buzzing: This sound could be caused by loose wiring, a failing motor, or capacitors that are malfunctioning.
Rattling: There may be loose parts within your unit, such as screws or fan blades.
Appliances
Unusual noises from appliances with motors might mean a mechanical problem. Homeowner warranties usually cover this type of issue.
Humming Dryer: Your clothes dryer could have an object caught in its blower.
Buzzing Refrigerator: The refrigerator could have an ailing compressor.
Grinding Dishwasher: If your dishwasher sputters or grinds, something could be stuck in its chopper blade.
Popping or Rumbling Water Heater: Water heaters operate almost silently, so if you hear sounds, don’t ignore them. Popping or rumbling could be due to sediment buildup on the bottom. It means it’s struggling to operate and might fail. You may need to flush the inside of the tank.
Noises from Gas Appliances: Don’t wait on gas appliances that are making noises. This may indicate a leak that could be serious.
Plumbing and Pipes
You want your plumbing and pipes to work properly. Water can cause significant damage if problems aren’t addressed in a timely manner.
Clanking: This sound could be a steam radiator that is not draining properly. It also could indicate a loose pipe. Get that fixed, as loose pipes moving around could lead to burst pipes.
Banging or Thumping: This is caused by water changing direction or being brought to a sudden halt. Usually, it doesn’t cause problems, but the sound can be annoying. You can buy a water hammer arrestor for appliances that reduce the noise.
Gurgling Toilet: This could indicate a plumbing backup somewhere. It could be a partially clogged drain, a problem with the flush value, a buildup of sediment in the tank, or inadequate venting in the plumbing system. You will want to call a plumber sooner than later.
Dripping: Water leaks inside a wall can lead to mold or mildew and can destroy insulation. Try to isolate where the dripping sound is coming from. Get professional help as needed.
Water Loss Test (water meter): If you cannot find the leak, try a water loss test. Look at the water meter and write down the reading. Stop all use of water in your home for 30 minutes. Do not flush the toilet or use the sink, tub, shower, dishwasher or washing machine. Turn off the ice maker and sprinkler. Then check the water meter at the end of the half hour. If the reading is unchanged, you do not have a leaky pipe. You could have a leaky toilet or appliance.
Water Loss Test (well water): If you have well water, you won’t have a water meter to check. Stop all water use and stand near your water pump for 30 minutes. Listen for clicking sounds from the pump which could indicate a water leak.
Lights and Outlets
The lights and outlets in your home are connected to the electrical system. When components of this system fail, it not only is frustrating but could be dangerous.
Humming, Buzzing, Hissing, Crackling or Popping (light switches and outlets): Buzzing is the sound of electricity arcing across a bad connection. If you hear buzzing from your light switch or outlet, or a hissing/crackling/popping sound, stop using it immediately and call an electrician.
Humming, Buzzing, Whining (bulbs or dimmers): If a fluorescent bulb is making the noise, it means a ballast likely needs to be replaced. That is the part that controls the voltage to the bulb. If the dimmer is making the noise, replace it. You can also try changing the bulb as some bulbs work better with dimmers.
Unexpected sounds from above or behind the walls might mean unwanted guests. Noises from your windows could signal hidden openings. Both could translate to expensive repairs if not addressed.
Skittering: This is the sound of critters in your home: raccoons, squirrels, birds, and even insects. The longer they are there, the more damage they can do, from chewing through wiring and insulation to giving birth to babies. When these animals die in your walls, they also cause an awful lingering odor. Take note of when you hear the sounds. Rodents are nocturnal. Call an exterminator. Be sure to search and seal the openings that allowed critters into your house or more could follow.
Buzzing: If you hear a buzzing sound in your walls, it could indicate a colony of bees making their nest there. Carpenter bees are especially known to do lots of damage by burrowing in your wood. Contact a professional pest removal service to safely get rid of this hazard.
Creaking and Squeaking (floors): These sounds could be the house settling, or they could be caused by temperature changes that result in the wood boards rubbing against each other. However, when the squeaking is accompanied by sagging or gaps in the floor, you will want to consult a professional.
Whistling (windows): Whistling sounds could point to improper installation, worn weather stripping, or poor seals. Check the seal around your windows for signs of wear, and caulk or reseal as needed.
Rattling (windows): Something is not fitting quite right if you hear rattling. Get it checked out as this could lead to cracks in the glass.
Your home is your greatest investment. Keep up with winter home maintenance and protect your home with the right insurance for added peace of mind.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
