Your Fall Home Maintenance Checklist

Fall is finally here, and winter will arrive before you know it. With one of the busiest times of year approaching, taking a few moments to check in around your house is worth the effort. This month, we’re sharing our fall home maintenance checklist to keep your property in prime condition.

How to Maintain Your Home This Fall

It takes a discerning eye to spot potential problems around the home. This fall home maintenance checklist will help you focus on the spots that pose the greatest concern.

1. Seal Foundation Cracks

Caulk any cracks in your foundation. These areas could include where the brick meets siding materials, entrance points of pipes and wires, as well as around the edges of windows and doors. Not only does this save energy, you’ll also be preventing water damage and mold growth.
 

2. Inspect the Roof

Identify any loose or missing shingles and repair these areas. Without the proper components, your roof is vulnerable. As the first line of defense for your home, you want to maintain the roof before a problem arises.
 

3. Clean Gutters

Once the leaves have fallen off the trees, flush your gutters and downspouts. Inspect joints, tightening any brackets along the way.
 

4. Clear the Yard

Collect leaves, bulbs, and other debris. Drain fuel from gas-powered yard equipment and store it away in the shed. Drain your hose and take it inside. Fill bird feeders.
 

5. Eliminate Energy Vampires

Seal air leaks in windows and doors with weather stripping and caulk. This can reduce drafts, saving up to 10% on your yearly bill.
 

6. Schedule a Heating Inspection

Not only should you have a licensed HVAC professional inspect the system, you should also attend to other heating and cooling sources. 
 

7. Practice Fire Safety

Every month, you should test the batteries in your smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector. Replace the batteries or unit if needed.

Prevention is Your First Line of Defense

We hope this fall home maintenance checklist helps you prioritize the spots around your house that could use some attention. Taking time to handle these issues now can prevent extensive damages and a need for restoration services later.