As we inch closer to the end of the year, it’s time to bid farewell to summer and prepare our homes for the fall and winter seasons.
Fall is a crucial time for homeowners to tackle essential maintenance tasks to make sure their homes are ready for the change in seasons.
It happens every year, so why not get a jump on your fall home maintenance tasks to keep your home in tip-top shape.
1. Clean and inspect gutters
Let’s start at the top – your gutters.
Gutters play an important role in directing rainwater away from your home’s foundation, preventing potential water damage. As fall leaves begin to accumulate, they can quickly clog up your gutters, causing water to overflow and potentially damage your roof and walls.
Cleaning and inspecting your gutters should be a top priority in the fall to avoid these issues.
2. Check and seal windows and doors
Depending on where you live, fall often brings cooler temps, and you want to keep your home warm without cranking up the heating.
Fall is the best time to check your windows and doors for any gaps or leaks. Inspect the weather stripping around windows and doors and seal any cracks to prevent drafts. This simple step can improve energy efficiency and make your home more comfortable during the colder months.
3. HVAC maintenance
Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system will be working overtime in the winter to keep your home cozy. Replace the air filter, and schedule a furnace inspection now, before you need it (and your HVAC pro is booked solid).
4. Lawn and garden maintenance
While it’s essential to maintain the inside of your home, don’t forget about your outdoor spaces. Fall is the perfect time to prepare your lawn and garden for the winter ahead.
Rake up fallen leaves and debris to keep them from smothering your lawn. Winterize your garden by covering delicate plants and insulating outdoor faucets.
5. Inspect your roof
Your roof takes the brunt of weather changes. Before winter arrives, give it a thorough inspection. Look for loose or damaged shingles and check the flashing around chimneys and vents. Deal with any issues while they’re still small to ensure your roof remains in top shape.
6. Check your plumbing
Frozen pipes are a homeowner’s nightmare during winter. Prevent this by insulating pipes in unheated areas like crawl spaces and garages. Regularly check for leaks and fix them promptly to avoid water damage.
7. Safety and security
Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they’re working correctly. Also, inspect locks on doors and windows for security to provide peace of mind for you and your family.
Finally, you don’t have to do all of these things at once. Add one or two to your schedule and before you know it, all of your fall home maintenance tasks will be done, giving you more time to enjoy the changing season.
Essential Home Maintenance Tasks Best Left to Professionals
