Easy tasks every homeowner should tackle before winter.
- Fall home maintenance can prevent costly surprises once winter hits — preparation is key.
- These tips will help you protect your home and avoid common seasonal problems.
- Take action now to ensure your home is ready for the colder months ahead.
As the weather cools down and the leaves start to pile up, it’s time to think about fall home maintenance. Yes, raking those leaves is an important task on that list, but there’s more to keeping your home safe and ready for the colder months. Tackling a few simple tasks now — like cleaning out your gutters and checking your heating system — can save you from bigger headaches later on. So, before you kick back with some warm apple cider, here are ten easy fall home maintenance tips to make sure your home stays safe, warm and ready for whatever winter brings.
Related: Prepare your home for winter – Easy tips!
Fall home maintenance, made simple.
Prepping your home for winter can be quick and easy. These straightforward fall maintenance tips will help protect your home and keep things running smoothly all season long.
1. Clear leaves and debris
Fall foliage may be beautiful but once those leaves hit the ground, they’re nothing but a peril. Wet leaves on walkways and driveways can create slick surfaces, which can lead to slips and falls. Therefore, regularly clearing leaves not only keeps your property looking neat but also makes it safer.
And don’t forget your gutters — leaves and debris can clog them, causing water to back up onto your roof or siding. Cleaning out your gutters in the fall helps prevent water damage and keeps everything in working order when the rain and snow arrive.
2. Inspect your roof and gutters
While you’re up there, take a few minutes to inspect your roof. Look for missing or damaged shingles, cracks or other signs of wear. A small roof issue now can quickly turn into a major problem once winter weather hits. And again, ensuring that your gutters and downspouts are clear will help guide water away from your house, reducing the risk of leaks or water damage later.
3. Prepare for storms by trimming trees
Fall brings chilly nights and stronger winds, which can wreak havoc on your yard. Now is the time to check for dead branches or overgrown trees that could fall onto your house or car during a storm. Trimming trees early on can help prevent damage to your property later.
But if you’re not sure which trees need attention, hiring a professional arborist to assess your property might be a good idea. Keep in mind that it’s always safer to handle potential hazards quickly before they become real problems.
4. Keep your home warm and safe
Before you start cranking up the heat, make sure your furnace is in good condition. Have a professional inspect it and don’t forget to change the filters so your system runs efficiently all winter.
And while you’re at it, it’s also a good idea to check your fireplace and chimney, especially if you plan on using them regularly. A clean chimney is an essential part of your fall home maintenance and can significantly reduce the risk of a house fire! It’s also a good idea to keep fire extinguishers handy — especially in the kitchen, where most house fires start.
Related: Space heater safety tips
5. Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Speaking of fire safety, now’s also the time to test your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace the batteries and make sure everything is in working order. It’s a small step, but it can make a big difference when it comes to your safety.
6. Seal your windows and doors
Drafty windows and doors are not only uncomfortable — they can also drive up your energy bills. Check for any gaps or cracks around your windows and doors and seal them up to keep the heat inside. You’ll stay warmer and save on heating costs at the same time. It’s a win-win.
7. Boost your home security with smart devices
With shorter days and longer nights, fall is a great time to upgrade your home’s security. One option is Installing motion-activated lights around your property, which can deter potential intruders. And a home security system with cameras or doorbell cameras can provide an extra layer of protection, especially during the holiday season when more packages may be left on your porch.
Smart devices, like programmable thermostats or smart locks, can help make your home more efficient and secure. These devices also often come with features that allow you to monitor your home remotely, giving you peace of mind when you’re away.
Related: Holiday safety with smart home devices
8. Winterize your sprinkler system
Freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on outdoor plumbing, so if you have a sprinkler system, be sure to winterize it. Drain the system to avoid frozen pipes, which can burst and cause expensive damage. Don’t forget to shut off and drain any outdoor faucets, too!
9. Walk your property for any issues
Taking a simple walk around your home can reveal hidden issues. Check for cracks in walkways, loose fence posts or any areas where water tends to pool. Fixing these small problems now can help prevent larger issues down the line.
10. Clean out your dryer vent
It’s easy to overlook but cleaning your dryer vent is one of those small maintenance tasks that makes a big impact. Lint build-up in the dryer vent is a major fire hazard, so take the time to clear it out before winter. Your dryer will run more efficiently, and you’ll lower the risk of a house fire.
Ready for winter?
Fall home maintenance doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By tackling these simple tasks now, you’re not just maintaining your property — you’re protecting your home from potential hazards and costly repairs. Whether it’s sealing drafty windows, winterizing your sprinklers or making sure your dryer vent is clean, each step helps protect your home for the months ahead. Put in a little effort today, and you’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing your home is ready for whatever winter brings.
Now go on and enjoy the sweater weather, pumpkin spice and everything nice that this season brings!
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