Your Fall Home Maintenance Checklist

With the changing of the season from summer to fall comes a new set of home maintenances to attend to. And though we wish it was as easy as lighting a few cozy candles and hanging up autumnal décor, these important maintenances are necessary in preparation for the cooler temperatures to come! From interior to exteriors, to gutters and grass, this fall home maintenance checklist will help transition your home for the eventual winter season.

Gutters and Downspouts – For the better half of the year, you probably pay little attention to your gutters (come on, admit it!) But, when it comes to fall, it’s crucial that gutter maintenance becomes a priority. Cleaning your gutters and downspouts regularly of leaves and debris are vital throughout the fall season. Neglected gutters can get costly quickly, as they can wreak havoc on both the interior and exterior of your home. Be sure to also note that water is properly draining away from your home and doesn’t pool either!

Window and Door – Keep the cold temperatures out and your utility bill low by inspecting the windows and doors of your home for any air leaks or drafts. Weatherstripping and/or caulking gaps are two great, low budget options to amend any drafty areas.

5 Signs You Need New Windows

Chimney and Fireplace – Before you set your first fall fire ablaze, you’ll want to have your chimney and fireplace attended to. If you use your fireplace regularly throughout the season, an annual chimney cleaning/inspection is recommended. Doing so will help prevent and reduce the risk of fires.

Furnace – When it comes to your furnace, you’ll want to have it tuned-up before the cold weather comes creeping in! Change your furnace’s filter, clean heating ducts, and schedule an appointment with your local HVAC company to have your heating system running efficiently this fall season.

BONUS – Have a ceiling fan? Reverse the direction to keep heat circulating in rather than away (heat rises, remember)!

Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors – Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors can easily become an afterthought (unless someone’s cooking reminds you of their presence)! Yearly, especially during the fall when fireplaces & furnaces are gearing up for use, is it important to make sure your detectors are working properly and dead batteries are swapped out.

Outdoor Faucets and Hoses – Avoid frozen pipes and water damage by disconnecting all outdoor hoses and winterizing spigots. Not doing so can cause your pipes to freeze and burst, so it’s pretty critical you avoid that costly fix!

Fertilize – Believe it or not, you’ll want to prep your grass from now for Spring and Summer. Though it doesn’t appear to be growing, your grass’ root system is still hard at work underground. Fall fertilization will promote growth & greenery once winter’s final snow melts!

Winter Equipment – Just as quickly as you tucked your mower away, you’ll want to break out your snowblower and make sure it’s in running order. Trust me, your future self will thank you when the first major snowfall drops, and you’re not buried inside!