As fall begins to take over and the air turns crisp, it’s the perfect time to prepare your home for the colder months ahead.
Taking a few preventative steps this season can save you time, money, and potential headaches when winter arrives.
Whether you’re a new homeowner or a seasoned pro, these fall home maintenance tips will help keep your property in top shape all season long.
1. Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts
Falling leaves and debris can quickly clog your gutters, leading to water damage, roof issues, or even foundation problems. Be sure to:
- Remove leaves, twigs, and buildup from gutters and downspouts
- Check for leaks or sagging sections
- Ensure downspouts direct water away from your home’s foundation
2. Inspect Your Roof
Before the first snow hits (because yes, snow will be here before you know it!), take time to visually inspect your roof or hire a professional. Look for:
- Missing, damaged, or curling shingles
- Signs of wear around vents and chimneys
- Moss or algae growth, which could indicate trapped moisture
Addressing small issues now can help prevent costly repairs later.
3. Seal Windows and Doors
Drafty windows and doors are one of the biggest culprits of heat loss during the colder months. To improve energy efficiency:
- Apply weatherstripping around doors and windows
- Use caulk to seal small cracks or gaps
- Consider installing storm windows or using window insulation film
4. Service Your Heating System
Nothing’s worse than discovering your heat isn’t working on a cold night. Schedule a professional HVAC check-up to:
- Inspect and clean your furnace or heat pump
- Replace filters (and continue to do so monthly)
- Ensure your thermostat is functioning properly
This is also a great time to test your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.
5. Prep Your Outdoor Spaces
As you begin to spend more time indoors, don’t forget about outdoor maintenance:
- Drain and store garden hoses
- Shut off outdoor water valves to prevent pipe bursts
- Cover or store patio furniture and outdoor grills
- Trim overhanging branches near your roof or power lines
6. Check Your Chimney and Fireplace
Planning to cozy up by the fire? Make sure your chimney and fireplace are clean and safe to use:
- Hire a certified chimney sweep for a professional inspection
- Remove any buildup of soot or creosote
- Ensure the damper opens and closes properly
7. Reverse Ceiling Fans
Many homeowners don’t realize that reversing the direction of ceiling fans in the fall helps distribute warm air more efficiently. What a fun fact! In the cooler months, set your fan to run clockwise at a low speed.
For some more tips on this click here!
Are You Ready?
Fall is a beautiful time of year—but it also signals the start of harsher weather conditions. By taking care of these simple maintenance tasks now, you’ll enjoy peace of mind all winter long and protect the investment you’ve made in your home.
Whether you’re settling into a new house or preparing your property for sale, staying on top of seasonal maintenance is always a smart move.
Looking for more homeowner tips or thinking about buying or selling this season? Feel free to contact us—we are here to help with all your real estate needs!
