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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Save time and effort with the right tools in your toolbox.

 
Here are our suggestions for the types of tools to have on hand so that you’ll be ready for any task. The right tools can make the difference between success and frustration.

The Toolbox

Before you invest in a lot of tools, you’ll want a place to store them to keep them clean, dry, and ready for duty. Maybe that means a wall or pegboard system, or maybe it means an actual container.  Here’s one suggestion for a tool box that you can store or carry: from DeWalt, the TSTAK® deep box with flat top (DWST17806). This flexible platform from DeWalt allows different combinations; all units can stack on top of each other and are able to connect with durable side latches for easy carrying and safe stacking. This model can be used for storage of corded and cordless tools and features a removable tray for access to essential tools. Heavy duty metal latches and hinges are built for durability.

Utility Knife

This is an upgrade from the throw-away box cutters you can pick up anywhere. A good quality utility knife is a favorite cutting tool. From opening boxes to cutting carpet, a utility knife can do it all. Try the Stanley Quick Change Retractable Utility Knife (ST10499) – a trustworthy tool at a reasonable price point.

Our Pro pick is the DeWalt Premium retractable Utility Knife (DWHT10295) which is water resistant and has a lifetime warranty.

Screwdriver

You could buy a whole set of screwdrivers, or you can buy one that can handle many jobs: the Lutz 15-in-1 screwdriver (7965001). This screwdriver has a an easy grip handle and integrated storage for 7 double ended interchangeable bits. Ratcheting action in the handle gives you some extra power. This truly is a toolbox essential that you will reach for over and over.

Pliers

Pliers are universal tools that can perform a range of duties. They can be used for light electrical work and other tasks because they can grip, bend, and cut. These tools are indispensable for your toolbox, work bench, or tool belt. A good basic set of pliers is the Stanley 3-piece set (ST84056) which includes 6″ diagonal pliers, 6″ long  nose pliers, and 6″ slip joint pliers.

Our Pro pick is a single set of Stanley Long Nose Pliers (ST84097). This plier has a rust resistant finish, hardened cutting edges for strength, and machined jaws for a slip-resistant grip.

Safety Gear

PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) is important, and it doesn’t cost a lot.  Some items to consider:

3M masks – for chemical use, painting, sanding, and recently, virus protection! For a one time job, keep a pack of 2 masks (under $10) in your tool box: 3M N95 Particulate Respirator our item # 82MMM8654.

For a bigger job or if you have people helping you, stash a box of 10 with your gear  – at under $25, you’ll save on buying in bulk and have them ready when you need them – item # 82MMM8511BX.

Other PPE to keep nearby: high visibility safety gloves – reusable single pair item # 82BG8412M (or L, or X depending upon size – just $6); safety vest  – under $10 for a basic hi-vis vest with reflective stripes; safety glasses & ear protection (under $10 for a combo pack of glasses and ear plugs, item # 590541839, plus other items to choose from.

Levels

For small jobs around the house, like leveling a shelf or picture frame, a toolbox size level may be all that you need. The Johnson 7500 aluminum torpedo level measures just 9″ long and is under $10. for larger projects like doors and windows, you may need a longer level, such as the Johnson 4800 (JL4800) – a 4′ aluminum box level.

Our Pro pick is the Stabila (STA37532) Jammer set – this 2-piece set includes 78″ and 32″ aluminum box beam levels for leveling headers, sills, thresholds, door frames and more.

Hammers

You’ll want a good hammer for nailing or pulling nails. The Vaughan 999 (VAU999) rip hammer, 20 oz, is a classic tradesman tool, and a good fit in any toolbox. This one has a hardwood handle, a rust-resistant finish, and is made in USA.

Step up your game with the EstWing E320S (ESTE320S). This 20 oz hammer is forged from steel and has a shock reduction grip for more comfort when you’re using it all day. At under $35 each, either of these will serve a wide range of people and projects.

Measuring

Our hardware experts have 2 recommendations for measuring tapes that are go-to items for the trade, and equally useful around the house: Stanley Fat Max 25’ tape item # ST33725.  Or try the DeWalt 25’ Tough Series tape, with a 17’ stand out (meaning you can extend it 17’ before the tape will bend). At under $30 each, these are both reliable tape measures you will reach for again and again.

Adjustable wrenches

An adjustable wrench is a great tool to have in the home because they are used for tightening loose nuts and bolts, making them essential for assembling furniture, working on the car, and a myriad of other tasks. For general use, you can try a Stanley 8″ adjustable wrench (ST87369).

Our Pro pick is a socket kit. With 69 pieces including both 3/8″ and 1/4″ drive sockets and ratchets, this Stanley (ST92824) set this will serve you well for common home and automotive use.

Tapes and Adhesives

Yup, you saw it here, a good old roll of duct tape is handy to have. Plus other kinds of tape, such as masking or painter’s tape, electrical tape, teflon tape, double sided adhesives, hook and loop fasteners or wood glue. When it comes to having the right tools for the the job, sometimes the word tool is used loosely.

Dropcloths or tarps

Maybe a  dropcloth won’t fit in the toolbox, but it is nice to have on hand. Quite often this is the item that is forgotten until you start sawing or making holes in drywall and realize what a mess it makes. Tarps are useful for covering projects outside.

We hope to see you at one of our many locations where you can meet the Riverhead Building Supply team and take advantage of their knowledge. See our calendar for information about tool shows and other upcoming events.

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Special deals available on these dates and at these locations only. Get there early for the best selection. #tools

May 18 & 19 – Middletown, RI

7 AM – 2 PM

The Power Tool Show and Sale at Riverhead Building Supply is the perfect place to find new power tools, new batteries, and new accessories to upgrade your work tools.

Batteries Not Included

That phrase might give you a headache at the holidays, but we’re here to make sure that’s the only time it’s an issue. During the Power Tool Show and Sale you’ll find a variety of bare tools, just the way their maker made ‘em. The only thing missing from our bare tools is the battery pack. Batteries can be pricey, and since tool makers are on top of their game, you can move batteries between certain models of tools with ease.

We’ve made it even better to buy bare. During our Tool Show and Sale, we’re offering a free battery with some purchases. Double up on power packs, and keep them charged and ready to swap out.

Build a Kit

Build your own kit with the tools or batteries that you need most. On sale days, we’ll let you choose how you match up your tools and batteries from either DeWalt or Makita.

Powerful Nailers
 

Cordless is king, and Paslode has you covered whether you want to use a battery or fuel-powered nailer. Check out our special offers on framing nailers, finish nailers, and brad nailers.

More Power, Less Noise, Reduced Fatigue.
 

Whether you are a professional landscaper or a weekend gardener, you’ll love our selection of battery-powered alternatives for lawn care. With so many communities adopting new codes about when and where (or even if) you can use gas-powered mowers, blowers, and trimmers, it makes sense to check out the DeWalt and Makita outdoor equipment in our sale.

Our Level Best

Stabila tapes, levels, and now lasers have been keeping your jobsites level and square for over 100 years. Find a great deal on the latest in measuring accuracy at our show and sale.

The post Spring Power Tool Shows appeared first on Riverhead Building Supply.

Save time, improve results with the right power tools

 
Want to repair, renovate or construct something new? These are a few power tools that can help you save time and produce optimal results.

Visit the Riverhead Building Supply tool section in store or online where you can find the kinds of power tools that you’ll reach for again and again for home Improvement projects.

A cordless drill and impact driver kit is a great all-around combination for every home. Use the drill for creating pilot holes, then switch to a flat- or Phillips-head bit to drive screws.  Projects like repairing drywall, hanging shelves, or assembling furniture and cabinets becomes so much easier.

Here are a couple of combo kits to check out:

• DeWalt 2 pc Drill/Impact driver kit: This kit packs extra power with a 20 volt Max XR battery for long run time.
• Makita 2 pc Makita Drill combo kit: This drill/driver combo kit combines a lightweight tool with a powerful 18 volt lithium ion battery.

The Fein MultiMaster is the ultimate multitasking tool.  Use this precision-crafted oscillating tool for precise sawing, efficient sanding, filing, scraping, even polishing.

Experienced DIYers and Pros will enjoy using these tools

Sliding compound miter saw

A compound miter saw is an indispensable tool for cutting crown moulding, pictures frames, and wood for projects that require angled cross cuts. The blades pivot and tilt so you’ll have the ability to make both miter and bevel cuts.  While stationary and sliding compound miter saws are similar, a sliding compound miter saw increases your cutting capabilities. You’ll also be able to cut thicker materials, such as lumber, which can be useful if you are constructing a fence.
 
The DeWalt DWS780 Sliding Compound Miter Saw is an excellent sliding compound miter saw choice. It is durable, lightweight and designed for optimal cutting accuracy. It has a 15 Amp motor and an exclusive back fence design that cuts up to 2×16 dimensional lumber at 90° and 2×12 at 45°. See us at a tool show for special savings on this saw and get a bonus heavy duty stand with its purchase.

Cordless circular saw kit

A cordless circular saw kit is ideal for experienced DIYers and professionals who need to rip and crosscut wood including solid hardwood, MDF and hardboard, plywood and dimensional construction lumber. With a suitable blade, a circular saw may also be able to cut glass tile, metal, brick and other materials.

Cordless circular saws combine performance with portability. Simply charge the battery and take your tool wherever you need it without being tethered to an electrical outlet. You also won’t have to worry about a cord getting in the way of your cutting.

Ready to unplug for your next cutting project? Consider the Makita XSH06PT1 Cordless Circular Saw Kit to make maneuvering easy. It is compact, lightweight and comes with two free additional batteries for extended work time. It includes a dual port rapid charger, 24T ultra-coated saw blade, hex wrench, dust extracting attachment and carrying bag. Take advantage of special show savings of more than $140.

Framing nailer

Home builders already know the benefits of a framing nailer. This time-saving power tool easily drives nails into a framing assembly.  Framing nailers are much stronger and more powerful than a hammer so you can get your job done in a fraction of the time.  Plus, since they are lighter and more comfortable than a hammer, you can work for long stretches of time without fatigue.

While it may be warm now, nailing during the colder months can be challenging. Some framing nailers will freeze up.  If you’re looking for an all-season solution, try the Paslode Cordless XP Framing Nailer. This tough tool drives nails into a variety of harder woods and works well in temperatures as low as 14 F°.

If you need a higher holding capacity, a coil framing nailer could be right for you. Coil framing nailers have a magazine that can hold hundreds of nails which will minimize reloading interruptions. The powerful Bostitch BTF83C Coil Framing Nailer has a 200 magazine capacity and its low profile design enables it to fit between studs under 13” tall.

We hope to see you at one of our many locations where you can meet the Riverhead Building Supply team and take advantage of their knowledge. See our calendar for information about tool shows and other upcoming events.

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