Given the very summer-like temperatures outside, it may be a little hard to believe fall is on the way, but in just a few short weeks we will welcome the official start of a new season.
Many people enjoy the cooler temps and pumpkin flavors, but there are a few practical home maintenance steps to take to prepare for falling leaves and cooler temperatures. This list will help ensure your home is as ready for fall as you (hopefully) are:
- Clean out gutters & drains
Clogged gutters can lead to all sorts of water damage to your home. To protect your roof, make sure you unclog your gutters before leaves fall. Once you do, cover them with mesh to keep the debris out as leaves fall. It’s also a good time to clean out your downsprouts. Going on the roof is not ideal for everyone, so this would be a good job to hire out if that’s you!
- Take care of your roof
While you (or a proxy) are up on the roof, you need to assess it for damage. Inspect for missing or damaged shingles, other cracks or wind damage. It’s also important as leaves fall to keep the roof cleared, as a build-up of leaves and other debris can cause damage to your roof.
- Check your home’s exterior
While we don’t typically get snow in our area, we are still prone to the occasional ice storm. Fall is a good time to take a walk around your home and check for cracks in the siding, foundation or walkways and have them repaired if you find any. Once leaves are done falling, make sure to clear your pathways and secure any loose stair railings.
- Critter proof
As colder weather comes, critters will be looking for warm homes with pantries to raid—and you don’t want those to be yours! Mice can make their way through even the smallest of holes, a width of a pencil! If you find any holes you will want to seal them. This can be done with steel wool, caulk, cement, hardware cloth or other materials depending on the sizes of your holes. For a detailed list on where to check for holes and how to fill them if you find them, read this CDC article.
- Service your HVAC
As temperatures change, it’s a good idea to have your heating system serviced to prepare for colder temperatures. It’s always better to find out something needs maintenance before you actually need it to stay warm! Fall is also a good time to change your air filter.
- Add weatherstripping
Weatherstripping is a simple way to keep energy costs down. Check your current weaterstripping around your doors and windows. A trick is to slide a piece of paper under the door or window. If it slides easily, it’s time to replace your weatherstripping. Additionally if there are any cracks in the house, that could let air out, it’s time to seal those up.
- Check safety devices
Check to make sure your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors are working properly and change batteries if needed. Also, check the expiration dates on your fire extinguishers and purchase new ones if its time.
- Schedule a chimney sweep
If you have a working fireplace, you’ll want to make sure your chimney is cleaned before you light your first fire for the season. There are ways to do this yourself if you know what you are looking for, but a professional can also perform an inspection and clean your chimney for you.
