As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, it's time for homeowners to transition their homes from the carefree days of summer to the cozy embrace of autumn. Fall is a beautiful season, but it also brings its own set of challenges and maintenance tasks. To ensure that your home remains comfortable and well-maintained throughout the fall, we've compiled a comprehensive checklist of things homeowners should do to prepare their homes for this season.
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Clean Out the Gutters
Fall means falling leaves, and those leaves have a way of clogging up your gutters. Clean them out to prevent blockages that can lead to water damage, and ensure your gutters can effectively channel rainwater away from your home's foundation.
Photo courtesy of https://www.sacracustomhomes.com/
2. Inspect and Service Your Heating System
Before the temperatures drop significantly, have a professional inspect and service your heating system. We recommended Super Heat HVAC and Flader HVAC and Plumbing. This ensures it's working efficiently and reduces the risk of breakdowns during the chilly months ahead. Don't forget to change or clean your furnace filters regularly.
Photo courtesy of Flader Plumbing & Heating Co.
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Check for Drafts and Seal Gaps
Drafty windows and doors can make your home feel less cozy and lead to higher heating bills. Inspect for drafts, and seal any gaps or cracks with weatherstripping or caulk. This will help keep warm air in and cold air out.
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Clean and Store Outdoor Furniture
Before the first frost arrives, clean and store your outdoor furniture. Properly storing these items will extend their lifespan and prevent damage from harsh weather conditions.
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Prepare Your Fireplace or Wood Stove
If you have a fireplace or wood stove, ensure it's clean and safe to use. Schedule a chimney sweep to remove any creosote buildup and check for any structural issues. We recommend Lake County Chimney Sweeps or Ash Wipe. Stock up on firewood so you can enjoy cozy fires during fall evenings.
Photo courtesy of Unsplash
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Trim Trees and Shrubs
Prune overgrown trees and shrubs to prevent branches from falling on your home during storms. This will also help improve the overall health and appearance of your landscaping. We love the team at Bartlett Tree Experts!
Photo courtesy of Bartlett Tree Experts
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Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Your family's safety is paramount. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they're functioning correctly. Replace batteries as needed, and consider upgrading to smart detectors for added peace of mind.
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Clean and Store Summer Gear
Summer items like gardening tools, outdoor toys, and lawnmowers should be cleaned and properly stored for the season. Consider investing in a shed or storage bins to keep everything organized.
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Inspect Your Roof
A thorough roof inspection can reveal any damage or wear and tear that may have occurred over the summer. Addressing roofing issues promptly can prevent leaks and costly repairs in the future. If you need to contact a roofing professional we recommend E&L Roofing and Windows.
Photo courtesy of E&L Roofing and Windows
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Prepare Your Lawn
While your lawn may not need as much attention as in the spring, fall is an excellent time to aerate, fertilize, and reseed your lawn to ensure it remains healthy and lush for the next season. If you need some professional assistance, reach out to JNJ Landscape Maintenance, LLC!
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Stock Up on Cold-Weather Supplies
Don't wait until the first snowstorm to realize you're out of salt or shovels. Stock up on winter supplies like salt, snow shovels, and ice melt to stay ahead of the weather.
Photo courtesy of Unsplash
Fall is a season of transition, and by following this checklist, you can ensure your home is ready for the cooler weather and the challenges it may bring. From maintaining your heating system to protecting your outdoor spaces, these steps will help you create a warm and comfortable environment to enjoy the beauty of autumn inside and outside your home. With a little preparation, you can make the most of this wonderful season and keep your home in top shape.
See our complete list of local home maintenance experts here!
