5 Important Fall Home Maintenance Tasks

Fall is here! Follow this checklist to get all of the basic fall home maintenance out of the way before the snow flies.

1. Clean Gutters

Cleaning the gutters can be a dirty and annoying task, but imagine leaving it until spring. What a mess that would be! Clogged gutters can lead to water overflowing from the eaves due to ice, leaves, and other debris. Poor drainage can also cause costly damage to your roof and home. Though it’s an unpleasant and inconvenient chore, it’s in your best interest to clean the gutters once the leaves have fallen.

2. Rake the Leaves – or Just Use a Lawn Mower!

Raking leaves can be labor-intensive, especially by hand. Instead, consider using a lawn mower to make the job easier. It will pick up the leaves, and you can bag them just like you would with grass. If your lawn mower doesn’t have a bag, you can still use it to mulch the leaves. Mulched leaves are barely noticeable in the grass and make for great fertilizer!

When leaves pile up and are left over the winter, they can smother your lawn and prevent new grass from growing in the spring. Additionally, wet, decomposing leaves can invite mold growth, which can damage your lawn.

3. Inspect Your Roof

Regularly inspecting your roof is essential. You can either do it yourself or hire a contractor, but be sure to check the entire roof for potential issues with shingles, vents, or flashing. Look for any holes or soft spots. Catching these issues now can prevent moisture from entering your home and causing further damage. It’s best to address these problems while the weather is still favorable and repairs can be easily made.

4. Check Window Trim for Leaks

Ensuring your home’s openings are properly insulated is key. Inspect all windows and doors for drafts, and apply caulking or weather stripping as needed to seal any gaps. Poor insulation around windows and doors lets heat escape, which can lead to higher heating costs.

5. Inspect Your Heating System

Maintaining your heating system is crucial as temperatures drop. If you’re able, check it yourself; otherwise, hire a professional. If you have a furnace, make sure to change the filter before turning it on for the season. Annual heating system maintenance can help prevent unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs.

Hopefully this small list will help you enjoy the fall months even more!

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