Your Essential Fall Home Maintenance Checklist

There’s nothing like the crisp feel of autumn in the air. As we unpack our sweaters and enjoy the turning leaves, it’s also the perfect time to give our homes a little seasonal TLC. A few proactive steps now can prevent winter headaches, keep your energy bills in check, and ensure your home stays safe, efficient, and cozy all season long.

Ready to get started? Here’s your room-by-room guide to fall home maintenance.

🏡 Outside & Above: Protect Your Home's Exterior

1. Give Your Roof a Quick Look: Scan for loose, cracked, or missing shingles that could lead to leaks during winter storms.
2. Battle the Drafts: Check and replace worn weatherstripping around doors and windows. Seal any gaps with caulk to keep warmth in and cold out.
3. Clear the Gutters: Prevent ice dams and water damage by cleaning leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts.
4. Winterize Outdoor Plumbing: Drain garden hoses, shut off exterior water valves, and blow out irrigation systems to avoid frozen (and burst!) pipes.
5. Trim Back Branches: Prune any tree limbs that are too close to your house or power lines to prevent storm damage.

🏠 Inside & Comfort: Ensure a Warm and Efficient Interior Service Your Heating System

1. Schedule an HVAC professional to inspect and tune up your furnace before you need it most.
2. Test Safety Devices: Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, replacing batteries as needed. This is a simple step with lifesaving potential.
3. Prep the Fireplace: If you have a wood-burning fireplace, schedule a chimney cleaning to eliminate creosote buildup and ensure safe operation.
4. Reverse Ceiling Fans: Switch your fan’s rotation to clockwise (at a low speed) to recirculate warm air that rises to the ceiling.
5. Inspect for Leaks: Check under sinks and around toilets for any signs of leaking that could worsen during the holidays. 

⚠️ Safety & Preparedness: Peace of Mind for the Season

1. Check Fire Extinguishers: Ensure they are fully charged, easily accessible, and not expired.
2. Review Your Emergency Plan: Make sure your family knows the fire escape plan and where emergency supplies are located.
3. Restock Winter Supplies: Refresh your stash of ice melt, check your snow shovels, and prepare a winter car emergency kit.

✨ The Final Touch: Embrace the Cozy Factor

Once the essentials are handled, it’s time for the best part: making your home feel like an autumn sanctuary. Layer in soft throw blankets, light a seasonal candle, and add a few natural touches like pumpkins or pinecones to your décor.

Your Mission: Don't feel overwhelmed! Tackle a few tasks each weekend. A small investment of time this fall will pay you back all winter long in comfort, savings, and peace of mind.

Enjoy the season