Home Maintenance Checklist for Fall

Home Maintenance Checklist for Fall

As the vibrant colors of summer give way to the crisp air of fall, it's the perfect time to prepare your home for the colder months ahead. A little proactive maintenance now can save you from costly repairs later. Follow this fall home maintenance checklist to keep your home safe, cozy, and efficient as the seasons change.

Exterior Maintenance

• Clean Gutters and Downspouts
  Falling leaves can clog gutters, leading to water damage and ice dams in winter. Clear out debris, flush downspouts with a hose or pressure washer, and inspect for damage.
• Inspect the Roof
  Check for missing, damaged, or loose shingles. Look for signs of wear or leaks, and address issues before snow and ice arrive.
• Seal Gaps and Cracks
  Examine windows, doors, and your home’s foundation for gaps. Use weather stripping or caulk to seal them, preventing drafts and pest entry.
• Prepare Outdoor Faucets and Sprinklers
  Drain and store garden hoses. Shut off water to outdoor faucets and blow out sprinkler systems to avoid freezing damage.
• Winterize Sprinkler System
  Pressurize and drain the system to prevent freezing and damage to lines and sprinkler heads. Make sure the water is off and the controller set to off.
• Inspect Driveways and Walkways
  Repair cracks and uneven surfaces to prevent further damage from freezing water and ensure safe footing during icy conditions.
• Winterize Your Pool and/or Hottub
  Clean, cover, and winterize your pool/hottub to protect it from the elements.

Yard and Lawn Care

• Rake and Mulch Leaves
  Leaves left on the lawn can cause the grass to die, leaving bare spots ready for weeds in the spring. Gather leaves, mulch them and use them in garden or flower beds to create healthy environments for microbes and beneficial organisms.
• Trim Trees and Shrubs
  Prune overhanging branches near your home to minimize the risk of damage during winter storms. Trim smaller unwanted branches and growth spurts from trees and bushes to maintain health and vigor come spring.
• Clean and Store Lawn Equipment
  Clean off dirt and debris from mowers, trimmers, and other tools. If you're using battery-powered tools like we do, ensure batteries are stored in a cool (not freezing), dry place. Drain fuel from equipment to avoid sediment from cloggin fuel lines.

Interior Maintenance

• Test Your Heating System
  Before the first frost, have your HVAC system serviced and flame detector cleaned. Change air filters and test your furnace to ensure it's ready for colder weather.
• Inspect Your Fireplace and Chimney
  If you have a wood-burning fireplace, clean it and ensure the chimney is free of blockages. Schedule a professional cleaning if needed.
• Check for Drafts
  Use a thermal camera or run your hand along windows and doors to feel for drafts. Address them with insulation, weatherproofing or caulk.
• Reverse Ceiling Fans
  Switch your ceiling fans to spin clockwise. This pushes warm air down into the room, reducing heating costs.
• Clean or Replace Air Filters
  Regular filter changes improve air quality and system efficiency.

Safety Checks

• Inspect Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
  Replace batteries and test detectors to ensure they're functioning. Fall is an ideal time to replace older units.
• Review Emergency Supplies
  Check flashlights, batteries, first aid kits, and blankets. Restock as needed to prepare for winter storms.
• Fireplace and Heater Safety
  If using space heaters or a fireplace, ensure you have proper ventilation and working fire extinguishers.

Final Items

• Deep Clean Your Home
  Dust light fixtures, clean baseboards, and vacuum under furniture. A thorough cleaning now makes holiday prep easier.
• Organize the Garage
  Store summer tools and bring out snow shovels, ice melt, and winter equipment. Keep everything easily accessible and easy to get to.
• Decorate for the Season
  Once your maintenance tasks are complete, add some seasonal charm with pumpkins, fall wreaths, or cozy blankets. Maybe go ham and install holiday lights. Don't forget Home & Lawn can install those for you, just let us know.

Taking these steps this fall will keep your home running smoothly through the colder months, ensuring your family stays safe and comfortable. If you’d prefer a professional touch, our Home Complete Plan includes all of these tasks and more. Let us handle the hard work so you can focus on enjoying the season!

Ready to prep your home for fall? Contact us today!