A home is a big investment and requires annual maintenance to keep it in top condition. We’ve compiled a list of home maintenance tasks you should complete each fall to prepare your home for the change of seasons.
If you own a home with a chimney, you’re likely familiar with having it maintained. Hiring a chimney sweep each year is an important part of home maintenance and should be done before cooler weather hits. Ask friends and family for recommendations and have any service you hire check for cracks, look for animal or bird nests, and give your chimney a proper cleaning. Once complete, you’ll be ready to light a cozy fire as soon as the temperature drops.
Ideally, you should have your home’s heating and cooling systems checked every time you’re switching from air conditioning to heating or vice versa. A service provider will give your unit a once-over and check for any parts that may be wearing out or are in need of replacement. Complete your HVAC service in the fall before temperatures change drastically so you and your family can stay warm all winter long.
By fall, most summer plants have stopped producing and may need to be removed from gardens or planters. Before you start, harvest any remaining fruits and vegetables and preserve them for use later in the season. Research which plants will survive cold temperatures, and which ones will need to be removed completely. Fall is a great time to prep your garden beds for the next season. Use compost, fertilizer, and other scraps to keep your beds in top condition for spring.
When you’re removing garden remnants, tackle any large branches or other shrubs that may need trimmed. By trimming trees in the fall, you’ll reduce the risk of them falling under the weight of winter snow. Removing the branches can also keep squirrels and other animals from gaining easy access to your home’s attic or roof. Look up your local trash collector’s schedule and see when they collect fall debris for easy disposal.
Many folks take advantage of cooler temperatures by opening windows and airing out their homes. When you do, take the time to clean any glass, screens, and window wells of dirt and debris. Once clean, give them a once-over and fill any cracks or gaps with caulk to help prevent losing any warm air over the winter. Caulk is an inexpensive and effective way to seal your home, improving its energy efficiency and reducing the chance of moisture damage. Ideally, you’ll add or repair caulk around the doors, windows, and any other openings in the home to keep hot or cold air out.
With leaves dropping all season long, clearing them from your gutters is imperative. Clogged gutters can lead to water dams, rot, and other damage that can result in costly repairs. If your home is a single story, you may be able clean them yourself. If not, hire a maintenance team to take on the task. It’s likely that your neighbors will need the same service, so check in and see if you can get a deal on a cleaning service for the whole neighborhood.
Not only will maintaining your home keep you and your family comfortable during all seasons, but you’ll also be less likely to face unexpected issues – like clogged gutters – in the future. For more money-saving tips for homeowners, check out our WalletWorks page.