As the temperature drops, it’s time to prepare your home for winter with these 10 essential fall maintenance tips:
- Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Clear out leaves and debris to prevent clogs, water damage, and ice formation.
- Inspect the Roof: Check for damaged or missing shingles and repair any issues to avoid winter leaks.
- Seal Drafts: Seal any gaps around windows, doors, and siding to keep your home warm and reduce heating costs.
- Tune-Up Your Heating System: Have your furnace serviced and replace the filter for better efficiency.
- Prepare Chimneys and Fireplaces: Clean and inspect your chimney to ensure it’s safe for cozy fires.
- Winterize Outdoor Faucets: Drain and shut off outdoor water sources to prevent pipes from freezing.
- Check Weatherstripping: Replace old or damaged weatherstripping on doors and windows to keep out cold air.
- Trim Trees and Bushes: Cut back overgrown branches to minimize the risk of damage from snow or ice.
- Test Alarms: Ensure your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms are in good working order.
- Store Outdoor Gear: Protect outdoor furniture and tools by cleaning and storing them for the winter.
Taking care of these tasks now will help protect your home from the harsh winter weather, improve energy efficiency, and prevent costly repairs.
