Why Fall Is the Perfect Time to Check In on Your Home
As the weather cools and routines slow down, fall is the perfect season to give your house a little extra attention. Before freezing temps set in, a few simple maintenance tasks can protect your home, improve efficiency, and make everything feel a bit cozier for the holidays ahead.
Here’s a handy fall home maintenance checklist to help you stay on track. Bonus? It doesn’t require a ton of time or money.
1. Check and Replace Weather Stripping
Drafty doors and windows are one of the biggest energy wasters. Walk around your home and look for cracks or gaps around your doors. Replacing worn weatherstripping is quick and inexpensive, and it’ll help keep your home warm and energy bills low.
2. Re-Caulk Around Windows
Old or cracked window caulk lets cold air sneak in and warm air escape. Grab a tube of all-weather sealant and touch up any areas that look worn. It’s one of those small, satisfying fixes that pays off all winter long.
3. Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Clogged gutters can lead to roof leaks and foundation damage. Scoop out leaves, flush the gutters with a hose, and check that water flows freely away from the house. It’s a messy job, but future-you will be so grateful.
4. Inspect Exterior Paint and Caulking
Take a lap around your house and look for any peeling paint or cracked caulk around trim or siding seams. Touching up now prevents moisture from sneaking in and damaging your home during winter storms.
5. Have Your Fireplace Inspected
Before lighting that first cozy fire, schedule a chimney sweep or professional inspection. Built-up soot can create fire hazards, and you’ll rest easier knowing your fireplace is safe and ready for the season.
6. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Fall means more candles, fires, and space heaters. So, it’s the perfect time to double-check your smoke and CO detectors. Replace old batteries and make sure you have alarms on every level of your home, in all bedrooms, and in main living areas.
7. Seal Around Pipes and Vents
Inspect where pipes, vents, and cables enter your home. Fill small gaps with exterior-grade caulk or spray foam to keep heat in and unwanted critters out.
8. Inspect Garage Door Seals
A worn-out garage door seal can let in cold air, dust, and moisture. Check for daylight coming through the sides or bottom and replace the gasket if needed.
9. Repair Cracks in Concrete
Even tiny cracks in your driveway or walkway can expand once water freezes inside. Use a concrete crack filler to seal them up before temperatures drop.
10. Replace Air Filters
If it’s been more than a few months, swap out your HVAC filters. It’ll keep your system running smoothly and improve indoor air quality – especially once the windows close for the season.
11. Clean Out Dryer Vents
Lint buildup is a major fire hazard. Pull your dryer away from the wall, disconnect the vent, and clean it out. Don’t forget to check the exterior vent too!
12. Trim Trees and Bushes
Branches hanging over your roof or power lines can become dangerous in winter storms. Trim them back now, and rake up fallen leaves to keep your yard tidy and your grass healthy.
13. Inspect the Roof
A quick visual inspection can save you from leaks later. Look for missing shingles or sagging areas. If anything looks off, consider calling in a pro before snow or rain sets in.
14. Drain and Store Garden Hoses
Disconnect and drain your hoses, then shut off and cover outdoor faucets to prevent frozen pipes. It’s a simple task that can save you from a costly plumbing repair in January.
15. Stock Up on Fall Essentials
Round out your prep with a few cozy and practical items – firewood, driveway salt, fresh batteries, and yes, a new fall candle or throw blanket. Because home maintenance should have a little fun mixed in too.
Fall home maintenance doesn’t have to be overwhelming – just a few weekend projects can make your home feel safer, cozier, and ready for winter. Whether you’re in a brand-new house or a fixer-upper, a seasonal check-in like this helps your home last longer and keeps things running smoothly year after year.
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