Routine upkeep and maintenance on your home are essential to protecting what is likely your largest investment. We have compiled a fall home maintenance checklist for your convenience, along with a link to download a printable PDF.
- Schedule Chimney Cleaning, Gather Wood
It’s important to have your chimney inspected each year. Creosote can build-up in chimneys, posing a fire hazard. This is also a great time to gather firewood for the coming winter. - Clean Dryer Vents
When lint builds up in your dryer vents, not only can it make your dryer work less efficiently, but it can also be a fire hazard. Increased static electricity in cold weather can spark built-up lint. - Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
It’s a good idea to test and replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors twice a year, and it only takes a few minutes. This is also a great time to check the expiration date on your fire extinguishers and replace if necessary. - Conduct Energy Audit
Replace weather-stripping or caulking as needed. After time, the caulking around windows and doors can wear away. You can prevent future damage from rot caused by rain and snow and also keep out the cold air. Don’t forget the weather-stripping on your garage door! - Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Gutters can quickly fill up with leaves when they start to drop from the trees. You’ll want to be sure to clear out your gutters so the water can run freely. Also, when temperatures drop below freezing, you won’t want any water in the gutters to freeze because it can damage the gutters. - Check Roof
Check roof for missing or damaged shingles. - Seal Gaps Where Pests Could Enter
When the cold weather arrives, small critters will be looking for warm places. Fill small holes and cover larger gaps to prevent mice and other pests from taking residence in your home. - Change Furnace Filter
Be sure to do this before you turn on the heat this fall/winter. Not only can replacing your air filter improve the air quality in your home, but it helps increase the life and efficiency of your furnace. - Remove Hoses and Cover Outdoor Spigots
This simple task that can prevent the big problem of cracked pipes and water damage. Don’t forget to drain your hoses and store them indoors. - Clean Grill and Patio Furniture
To increase the life of your outdoor appliances and furniture, be sure to clean, cover, and store in a protected area. - Plant Bulbs for Spring
Now is the time to plant those spring-blooming bulbs, such as tulips, daffodils and hyacinths. You’ll want to plant them while the soil is still warm, but not too early that it causes plant growth. A little time spent in the garden now will result in a colorful yard for you to enjoy come spring.
What other fall home maintenance tips do you recommend?