If you're a seasonal resident in Punta Gorda, Florida, preparing your home before leaving for an extended period is essential. The Sunshine State’s warm and humid climate creates unique challenges, including mildew, storm damage, and pests. A little preparation can save you from unexpected surprises when you return. Follow this guide to safeguard your home’s interior, exterior, and security before locking the doors for the season - and download our comprehensive checklist at the end of this blog post.
Inside Your Home: Keeping It Clean and Dry
The Two Most Important Words to Remember when Closing Your Home Are Clean and Dry. Florida’s Humidity Can Lead to Mildew, Pests, and Corrosion, so Reducing Moisture and Eliminating Food Sources Will Help Keep Your Home in Good Condition.
Kitchen & Appliances
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Empty Your Refrigerator of Perishables and Unplug It. if Leaving It Off, Clean It with A Baking Soda and Water Solution, Dry Thoroughly, and Prop the Doors Open to Prevent Mold Growth.
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Unplug Appliances Like the Microwave, Coffee Maker, and Dishwasher to Avoid Power Surges.
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Clean All Surfaces—crumbs and Spills Attract Pests.
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Dispose of Open Dry Goods Such as Cereal and Crackers, and Store Other Dry Goods in Airtight Containers.
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Run the Garbage Disposal with Ice Cubes and A Baking Soda Solution to Prevent Odors.
Bathrooms & Laundry
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Scrub All Surfaces to Prevent Mold and Mildew Buildup.
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Cover Toilets and Sink Drains with Plastic Wrap to Stop Water from Evaporating and Sewer Gases from Entering Your Home.
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Turn Off the Water Heater if You’ll Be Gone for More than A Month.
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Shut Off the Water Supply to The Washer to Prevent Pressure Damage to Hoses.
Furniture & Other Interior Preparations
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Vacuum Upholstered Furniture and Lightly Coat Wooden Furniture with Wax to Prevent Dust Buildup.
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Remove All Bedding and Towels, Wash Them, and Store Them Properly.
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Leave Closet Doors Slightly Open to Allow Air Circulation.
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Unplug Electronics to Prevent Power Surges.
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Replace Batteries in Smoke Detectors and Security Systems.
Climate Control: Managing Moisture and Air Conditioning
Florida’s High Humidity Can Damage Your Home While You’re Away. Keeping Air Circulating and Maintaining a Balanced Temperature Is Key.
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Set Your Air Conditioning to Around 80°f to Remove Excess Moisture without Running up Your Electricity Bill.
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If You Have a Humidistat, Use It Correctly—improper Settings Can Increase Energy Costs.
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Ensure Proper Weather Sealing Around Doors and Windows to Keep Excess Moisture Out.
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If You Don’t Have Air Conditioning, Consider Using Desiccants (moisture Absorbers) in Enclosed Spaces.
Outside Your Home: Protection from The Elements
Keeping the Exterior of Your Home in Top Shape Helps Prevent Water Damage and Keeps Pests at Bay.
Roof & Gutters
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Clear Gutters and Downspouts to Ensure Proper Drainage.
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Inspect the Roof for Leaks, Missing Shingles, or Damaged Flashing and Address Any Needed Repairs.
Doors & Windows
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Caulk Gaps Around Windows and Doors to Prevent Rain and Humidity from Entering.
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Check and Replace Weather Stripping to Improve Insulation.
Landscaping & Outdoor Maintenance
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Trim Trees and Shrubs to Prevent Branches from Damaging Your Home in Storms.
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Store Outdoor Furniture Securely to Avoid Wind Damage.
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Remove Any Standing Water to Prevent Mosquito Breeding.
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Ensure Your Pool Is Maintained by A Professional While You're Away—never Drain a Pool Completely as It Can Cause Structural Damage.
Security Considerations: Keeping Your Home Safe
In Addition to Protecting Your Home from Nature’s Elements, You Also Need to Protect It from Potential Intruders.
Make Your Home Look Occupied
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Stop Mail and Newspaper Deliveries or Have a Neighbor Collect Them.
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Use Timers on Indoor Lights to Create the Illusion that Someone Is Home.
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Keep Outdoor Lights on Timers or Motion Sensors for Added Security.
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Ask a Neighbor or Friend to Check in On Your Home Periodically.
Secure Doors & Windows
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Install Deadbolts and Reinforce Sliding Glass Doors with Security Bars.
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Lock All Windows and Doors, Including the Garage.
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Consider a Home Security System with Remote Monitoring Capabilities.
Protect Valuables
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Store Important Documents and Valuables in A Safety Deposit Box or Take Them with You.
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Ensure Your Homeowner’s Insurance Is up To Date and Covers Potential Losses.
By Following These Steps, You Can Leave Your Seasonal Home with Peace of Mind, Knowing It Will Be Safe, Clean, and Ready for Your Return.
Have Questions or Need Professional Assistance with Home Maintenance Before You Go? Contact Us Today for Expert Help!
Final Checklist Before You Leave - Access Here
