As the days shorten and the temperature drops, prepare your home for colder weather. Fall is the perfect time to complete maintenance tasks to keep your house in great shape through winter. With the right preparation and foresight, you’ll avoid costly repairs. Here are a few helpful fall home maintenance tips to keep your property protected and comfortable when the weather turns cold.
Basic Fall Home Maintenance
1. Clean the Gutters
Before winter, clear out your home’s gutters to remove the debris accumulated over the summer. Clogged gutters overflow, causing water damage to your siding, roof, and foundation, which can be costly to repair. Remove leaves, branches, and debris from the guttering channels so water flows freely. Inspect the downspouts to verify they’re free of clogs and working correctly.
2. Home Heating System Maintenance in the Fall
Verify your heating system is in excellent shape before the cold weather hits. Have a certified professional inspect and service the HVAC unit, including cleaning or replacing filters, checking the thermostat, and inspecting ducts and vents. Regular maintenance extends the system’s lifespan, helps it function more efficiently, and saves money on energy bills.
3. Seal Windows and Doors
Air leaks can significantly impact your home’s temperature during the colder months. Check for drafts around windows and doors, and seal them with weather-stripping or caulking. You’ll also want to inspect the window frames for cracks and gaps between panes, which can let in cold air and affect your monthly heating bill.
4. Prepare Plumbing Systems
Frozen pipes are a common issue during the winter months, so checking and preparing your plumbing system before the temperature drops is essential. Inspect the pipes for signs of damage or wear, and make repairs before the cold weather arrives. In areas with temperatures below freezing, wrap the water lines with pipe insulation to prevent them from freezing.
It’s also wise to turn off and drain outdoor water lines. Disconnect and store the garden hose to prevent water from freezing inside and causing damage.
5. Check the Roof
Roof leaks can be a nightmare, so verifying the roof is in good condition before the snow starts to fall is essential. Check for cracked, missing, or damaged shingles that could allow water to penetrate your home. While up there, inspect the flashing around the chimney, skylights, and other roof penetrations to ensure a good seal around these components. If you cannot access your roof, hire a professional for an inspection.
Fall maintenance is essential to keep your home safe, comfortable, and healthy during the colder months. Completing these simple tasks before the cold weather sets in will save you money on costly repairs and energy bills throughout the winter. Taking care of your home in the fall allows you to relax and enjoy the season without worry.
Prudent Home Inspections provides inspection services in the Washington DC area. Contact us to schedule an appointment.