Totally agree on checking vent stacks—found a squirrel nest in one last fall, what a surprise that was. Another quick step: peek around your attic insulation too. Damp patches there can clue you into hidden pipe sweating before it gets serious.
Good catch on the attic insulation—lots of folks skip that step. I've seen small damp spots turn into big headaches fast. Better to spot it early than rip out drywall later...
"Better to spot it early than rip out drywall later..."
Couldn't agree more. I've lost count of how many times I've had to break the bad news about mold or rot behind walls because someone overlooked insulation or minor leaks. Seasonal checks aren't glamorous, but they're essential. A quick inspection of pipes in unheated spaces before winter hits can save homeowners a lot of grief—and money—down the line. Good on you for staying proactive.
Yep, seen this way too often myself. Had a customer last winter who skipped insulating pipes in the garage... ended up with a mini ice rink! Quick checks save headaches later, for sure.
As a first-time homeowner, this makes me wonder... how often should I actually be checking the pipes? Is it more of a seasonal thing or whenever the weather forecast looks sketchy? Definitely don't wanna host my own ice skating championships anytime soon, haha.
