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Fall Home Maintenance Checklist

13 Oct, 2023
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Home Equity,Lifestyle,Mortgages,Personal Finance,Uncategorised Comments Off on Fall Home Maintenance Checklist Roxana

Fall Home Maintenance Checklist

As the leaves begin to change colour and the air becomes crisp, it’s a clear sign that fall is upon us. While many people associate this season with pumpkin spice lattes and cozy sweaters, it’s also an essential time to prepare your home for the upcoming winter months. Taking the time to perform fall home maintenance can save you both time and money in the long run. In this comprehensive checklist, we’ll cover all the essential tasks you need to complete, from the interior to the exterior of your home.

Interior Maintenance

Heating System Inspection

  1. Furnace Inspection: Hire a professional to inspect and service your furnace. Ensure it’s in optimal working condition to keep your home warm during the cold winters.
  2. Change Air Filters: Replace the air filters in your furnace to improve efficiency and indoor air quality. This should be done every one to three months.
  3. Check Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Ensure your carbon monoxide detectors are working correctly, especially as you’ll be using your heating system more frequently.

Fireplace and Chimney Maintenance

  1. Chimney Cleaning: If you have a wood-burning fireplace, schedule a chimney cleaning to remove creosote buildup, which can pose a fire hazard.
  2. Stock up on Firewood: If you rely on a fireplace for additional heating, stock up on seasoned firewood to keep your home cozy.

Sealing Drafts

  1. Check Windows and Doors: Inspect for drafts around windows and doors. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal gaps, preventing heat loss.
  2. Add Insulation: Insulate attics and crawl spaces to keep your home warm and energy-efficient.

Smoke and CO Alarms

  1. Test Alarms: Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms to ensure they are functioning correctly. Replace the batteries if needed.

Gutters and Downspouts

  1. Clean Gutters: Clear gutters of leaves and debris to prevent water damage and ice dams during the winter.
  2. Extend Downspouts: Ensure downspouts extend away from your home’s foundation to prevent basement flooding.

 

Exterior Maintenance

Roof Inspection

  1. Inspect Roof: Examine your roof for damaged or missing shingles. Replace any that are compromised to control leaks.
  2. Clean Gutters: As mentioned earlier, clean gutters are essential for proper water drainage.

Lawn and Garden Care

  1. Rake Leaves: Regularly rake and remove fallen leaves to prevent them from smothering your lawn.
  2. Winterize Garden Beds: Trim back perennials, remove annuals, and mulch garden beds to protect plants during the winter.
  3. Lawn Aeration: Fall is an excellent time to aerate your lawn to improve root growth and drainage.

Exterior Plumbing

  1. Outdoor Faucets: Drain and shut off outdoor faucets to prevent frozen pipes.
  2. Sprinkler Systems: If you have an irrigation system, have it professionally winterized to avoid costly repairs in the spring.

Exterior Inspection

  1. Siding and Paint: Check your home’s exterior for peeling paint or damaged siding. Address any issues to prevent further damage from the winter weather.
  2. Seal Cracks and Gaps: Inspect the exterior for cracks and gaps in the foundation or walls. Seal them to prevent drafts and water infiltration.

Prepare Outdoor Equipment

  1. Store Outdoor Furniture: Clean and store outdoor furniture, cushions, and gardening tools in a dry, sheltered area.
  2. Clean BBQ: If you enjoy grilling year-round, clean your BBQ thoroughly and cover it to protect it from the elements.

 

Additional Tips

  1. Inspect the Attic: Check your attic for signs of pests or insulation issues. Address any problems promptly.
  2. Prepare for Power Outages: Winter storms can lead to power outages. Consider purchasing a generator or ensuring you have backup lighting and heating options.
  3. Emergency Kit: Assemble an emergency kit with essential supplies like non-perishable food, water, flashlights, and blankets.
  4. Professional Inspections: If you’re unsure about any aspect of your home’s maintenance, consider hiring professionals to inspect and address specific issues.

By following this comprehensive fall home maintenance checklist, you’ll ensure that your home is ready to withstand the challenges of the winter. Not only will these tasks help you stay warm and comfortable, but they can also save you money on energy bills and costly repairs down the road.

Take the time now to prepare your home, so you can enjoy the beauty of fall without worrying about your home’s well-being.

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