Get Your Home Fall-Ready for a Cozy and Safe Season
As the crisp autumn air settles in, it's time to prepare your home for the colder months ahead. Our fall home maintenance checklist will help you tackle essential tasks to keep your home cozy, safe, and in top shape all season long.
Exterior Maintenance:
- Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Remove leaves, debris, and dirt to prevent clogging and ensure proper drainage.
- Inspect Roof and Chimney: Check for loose or damaged shingles, and ensure the chimney is free of blockages or damage.
- Seal Cracks and Gaps: Inspect the exterior of your home for cracks in the foundation, siding, or around windows and doors, and seal them to prevent drafts.
- Check Exterior Paint: Touch up any peeling or chipped paint to protect your home’s exterior from moisture.
- Inspect and Clean Siding: Power wash siding to remove dirt, mold, and mildew, and check for any damage that needs repair.
Interior Maintenance:
- Check for Drafts: Inspect windows and doors for drafts, and add weatherstripping or caulk to improve energy efficiency.
- Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Replace batteries and test each device to ensure they are functioning properly.
- Clean and Inspect Fireplace: If you have a wood-burning fireplace, have the chimney cleaned and inspected, and stock up on firewood.
- Reverse Ceiling Fans: Change the direction of your ceiling fans to clockwise to help circulate warm air.
- Check Insulation: Inspect attic and basement insulation, adding more if necessary to maintain a consistent indoor temperature.
Yard and Garden:
- Rake Leaves and Compost: Regularly rake leaves and add them to your compost pile or use them as mulch for garden beds.
- Fertilize Lawn: Apply a fall-specific fertilizer to strengthen your lawn’s roots.
- Plant Fall Flowers: Add seasonal color to your garden with fall flowers like mums, pansies, and ornamental kale.
This checklist covers all the key areas to focus on as you prepare your home for the fall season.
