It’s that time of year again! Fall is in the air and it’s time to start thinking about home maintenance, in preparation for the colder months.
Here are 5 fall home maintenance tips to keep your house in tip-top shape:
1. Inspect Your Gutters and Downspouts
As the temperatures start to drop and the leaves begin to fall, it’s important to take some time to inspect your gutters and downspouts. Gutters play a vital role in protecting your home from water damage. By channeling water away from your roof and foundation, gutters help to prevent leaks and costly repairs. However, if they become clogged with leaves and debris, they can lose their effectiveness. That’s why it’s important to clean them out regularly – and especially before winter sets in.
Downspouts are also an important part of your home’s gutter system. Like gutters, they can become clogged with leaves and debris over time. So be sure to give them a quick inspection before the winter weather sets in. A little preventive maintenance now can save you a lot of headaches (and money) down the road.
2. Seal Cracks and Gaps
As the days grow shorter and the temperature starts to drop, it’s important to seal your home. Cracks and gaps in the caulk or weather-stripping around doors and windows can let in drafts, which can make your home feel colder and drive up your heating bills. In extreme cases, Drafts can also cause moisture problems that can lead to mold and mildew. Fortunately, sealing cracks and gaps is relatively easy to do, and it’s well worth the effort to keep your home comfortable all winter long. So before the snow starts flying, take a walk around your house and make sure that all the cracks are sealed up tight. It’s one of the easiest ways to save money and stay warm all winter long.
3. Inspect Your Roof
Though it may not be the first thing on your mind, a fall roof inspection can help prevent serious problems down the road. Ice and snow can cause damage to your roof, and if left unaddressed, this damage can lead to leaks and other costly repairs. A fall inspection gives you a chance to identify any potential issues before they become major problems. In addition, an inspection can also help you spot any damaged or loose shingles, which can be replaced before they cause further damage. So don’t wait until winter to have your roof inspected.
4. Service Your HVAC System
Now is the time to start thinking about getting your HVAC system serviced. While it may seem like a pain, servicing your system before winter can save you a lot of money and hassle in the long run. The cold weather puts extra strain on the system, and the last thing you want is for your furnace to go out in the middle of a snowstorm. That’s why it’s important to have your HVAC system serviced before winter hits.
Not only will it help to improve the efficiency of your system, saving you money on your energy bills. It will also help to prevent any potential problems from arising. So don’t wait until it’s too late – get your HVAC system serviced today!
5. Winterize Your Outdoor Space
Before the weather gets colder, it’s important to winterize your outdoor space. This means taking steps to protect your plants from the cold and prevent damage from ice and snow. Here are a few tips for winterizing your garden:
- Cover delicate plants with a frost blanket or burlap. This will help to keep them warm and protected from the elements.
- Put away all of your gardening tools and supplies. This includes hoses, watering cans, and lawn furniture.
- Drain any remaining water from sprinklers and irrigation systems. This will prevent the pipes from freezing and bursting.
By taking these simple steps, you can help to ensure that your garden survives the winter months unscathed.
Fall is the perfect time to prepare your home for winter. By following these simple tips, you can save money, stay warm, and avoid any potential problems down the road. So don’t wait until the last minute – start preparing your home for winter today!
