As the crisp autumn air starts to settle in, it’s a signal that winter is just around the corner. For many of us, that means cozying up with a hot cup of coffee, watching the leaves change color, and enjoying the warmth of our homes. But before you get too comfortable, there are a few important steps you should take to make sure your home is ready to handle the cooler months ahead.
Here’s your ultimate fall home maintenance checklist—a mix of DIY tasks and tips where you might want to call in the pros. Let’s dive in so you can enjoy your pumpkin spice lattes without any unexpected home maintenance headaches.
1. Inspect Your Roof and Clean the Gutters
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements, so it’s crucial to give it a good once-over before the weather takes a turn for the worse. Grab a pair of binoculars and inspect your roof for any missing or damaged shingles. Look for any signs of wear and tear—cracked or curled shingles are red flags. If you spot any issues, it’s best to call in a professional roofer to handle the repairs.
Next up are your gutters. Over the summer, they’ve probably accumulated quite a bit of debris—leaves, twigs, and who knows what else. Clogged gutters can lead to water damage as they overflow, potentially causing leaks in your roof or foundation. A simple cleaning can prevent these problems. If you’re comfortable on a ladder, you can tackle this job yourself. Otherwise, consider hiring a professional to do it safely.
2. Seal Windows and Doors
There’s nothing worse than a drafty house when it’s freezing outside. Not only does it make your home uncomfortable, but it also forces your heating system to work overtime, driving up your energy bills. Now is the perfect time to inspect your windows and doors for any gaps or cracks where cold air might sneak in.
Run your hand along the edges of your windows and doors. If you feel a draft, that’s where you need to focus. Weatherstripping and caulk are your best friends here. Apply weatherstripping around doors and windows to seal any gaps, and use caulk to fill in cracks around window frames. This simple step can make a big difference in keeping your home warm and cozy.
3. Service Your HVAC System
Your heating system is about to become the MVP of your household, so it’s important to make sure it’s in top condition before the cold really sets in. The last thing you want is for your furnace to fail during the first cold snap.
Schedule a professional HVAC inspections and tune-up. A technician will check for any issues, clean the system, and replace the filters. This not only ensures that your heating system is running efficiently but also helps extend its lifespan. If your system is older or has been giving you trouble, it might be worth considering an upgrade before winter arrives.
4. Check and Clean the Chimney
If you’re lucky enough to have a fireplace, you know how wonderful it is to curl up in front of a roaring fire on a chilly evening. But before you light that first fire of the season, make sure your chimney is in good shape.
A dirty or blocked chimney can be a serious fire hazard. Creosote buildup, bird nests, and other debris can obstruct the flue, preventing smoke from escaping properly. It’s a good idea to have a professional chimney sweep come out to inspect and clean your chimney. They’ll ensure everything is clear and that your fireplace is safe to use.
5. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
As you start using your heating system more frequently, it’s crucial to make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning properly. These devices are your first line of defense in protecting your family from dangerous situations.
Test each detector by pressing the test button—if it doesn’t sound, it’s time to replace the batteries. Even if they do work, consider replacing the batteries now so you don’t have to worry about it during the winter. If your detectors are more than 10 years old, it’s time to replace them entirely.
6. Drain Outdoor Faucets and Sprinkler Systems
Water left in your outdoor faucets and sprinkler systems can freeze during the colder months, causing pipes to burst and leading to costly repairs. To avoid this, make sure to drain and disconnect all outdoor hoses, and if possible, turn off the water supply to exterior faucets.
If you have an in-ground sprinkler system, it’s a good idea to have it professionally blown out. This process removes any remaining water from the pipes, preventing freeze damage. Taking care of this now can save you a lot of headaches and expenses come spring.
7. Check Your Home’s Insulation
Insulation is key to keeping your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. It’s worth taking the time to check the insulation in your attic, walls, and basement to ensure it’s adequate.
In the attic, make sure the insulation is evenly distributed and not compressed or damaged. If it looks thin, consider adding more. Proper insulation can make a huge difference in your home’s energy efficiency, reducing your heating bills and keeping your home more comfortable.
8. Reverse Your Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans aren’t just for cooling down in the summer—they can also help keep your home warm in the winter. Most ceiling fans have a switch that allows you to reverse the direction of the blades. In the winter, you want your fans to rotate clockwise at a low speed.
This creates an updraft that pushes warm air, which naturally rises, back down into the room. It’s a simple adjustment that can help you feel warmer and even allow you to lower your thermostat a degree or two, saving energy.
9. Stock Up on Winter Supplies
Don’t wait until the first snowstorm to realize you’re out of rock salt or your snow shovel is buried in the back of the garage. Take a little time now to get organized and stock up on winter supplies.
Make sure you have a good snow shovel or snow blower, ice melt or rock salt, and other essentials like windshield de-icer. If you live in an area that gets a lot of snow, consider investing in a roof rake to clear snow off your roof and prevent ice dams. Being prepared now means less stress when the snow starts to fall.
10. Prep Your Lawn and Garden
Just because the growing season is winding down doesn’t mean you can ignore your yard. Fall is the perfect time to give your lawn and garden a little extra attention to ensure they come back healthy and vibrant in the spring.
Rake up leaves to prevent them from smothering your grass, and consider applying a fall fertilizer to strengthen your lawn’s roots. Trim back any overgrown shrubs or trees, especially those close to your house, to prevent damage from winter storms. And if you love a bit of color in your garden, plant some fall flowers like mums or pansies.
How We Can Help
Taking care of your home is a big job, and you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you need help with HVAC maintenance, gutter cleaning, or anything in between, our team is here to make sure your home is ready for whatever winter throws your way.
Contact us today to schedule a service, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home is in expert hands.
