Fall Home Maintenance Checklist

Exterior Maintenance for Fall

Our Fall Home Maintenance Checklist starts with the exterior of your house. Here are the key tasks:

• Clean gutters and downspouts: Gutters can get clogged with falling leaves and debris. Regular cleaning will ensure proper drainage and prevent water damage.
• Inspect and clean the roof: Check for any loose or damaged shingles and remove any debris that may have gathered. This will help prolong your roof's lifespan and prevent leaks.
• Seal any air leaks: As temperatures start to drop, seal any air leaks around windows and doors. This will increase energy efficiency and keep your home warm during the colder months.
• Inspect and clean siding: Look for cracks or damage to siding and repair or replace the siding to keep cold air out of your home during fall and winter. Follow the tips in this video to clean your home’s siding:

By completing these tasks, you'll have your home's exterior ready for the fall. For any questions, our team at Sears Home Services is ready to assist.

Interior Maintenance

Maintaining your home's interior during the fall is just as crucial as the exterior. Here are some key tasks for your fall home maintenance checklist:

• Check smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors: Ensure they are functioning properly, as you'll likely be spending more time indoors during the colder months.
• Adjust thermostat settings: As the weather cools, adjust your thermostat settings for optimal comfort and energy efficiency.
• Drain the water heater: Drain your water heater at least once a year to improve its efficiency and prolong its lifespan.
• Have you furnace inspected and maintained: A professional inspection and maintenance will ensure your furnace is running efficiently and identify any potential issues. Schedule your fall furnace maintenance and cleaning service now.

Attending to these interior maintenance tasks will keep your fall home comfortable, safe, and efficient.

Lawn and Garden Fall Maintenance

Preparing your lawn and garden for the colder months is a key part of our Fall Home Maintenance Checklist. Here are the steps:

• Prep lawn and trees for winter: Rake up fallen leaves and give your lawn a final mow. Cut your grass shorter than you normally would in the summer to avoid snow mold. This fungus can show up after a thaw if your grass is too long and matted. Protect your trees with burlap or tree wrap to shield them from harsh winter conditions. This is a key part of lawn maintenance in the fall.
• Clean and store lawn equipment: Clean and maintain your lawn equipment before storing it for the season. This will prevent damage and ensure they're ready to use when warm weather returns.
• Winterize your vegetable garden: Remove dead, decaying plant matter and pop it in your compost bin. But leave your dead stalks in the garden. They’ll act as makeshift mulch to help protect your perennials’ roots. Cover your garden with mulch. This will help protect your garden soil from the cold.

These fall maintenance tasks will keep your lawn and garden in excellent condition throughout the winter. For any questions, don't hesitate to reach out to our team at Sears Home Services.

Porch and Deck Maintenance

Maintaining your porch and deck during the fall season is crucial. Here are some key tasks for your house winter checklist:

• Turn off exterior faucets: Prevent water in pipes from freezing and causing damage by turning off and draining any exterior faucets.
• Inspect and clean fireplace chimney: Have your chimney inspected and cleaned before using your fireplace during the fall season to prevent chimney fires.
• Keep firewood dry: Store your firewood properly to ensure it burns efficiently and stays free from mold and rot.

Following these tips will keep your porch and deck in great condition throughout the fall season and extend their lifespan.

Safety Precautions for Fall and Winter

As part of your Fall Home Maintenance Checklist, safety should always be a priority. Here are three safety measures to keep in mind:

• Tune up your snowblower: Make sure your snow removal equipment is in top shape by tuning up the engine and stocking up on supplies such as shear pins.
• Review home fire safety measures: With the arrival of colder weather, it's the perfect time to review your home's fire safety measures. Check your smoke detectors and fire extinguishers, and review your fire escape plan.
• Test your emergency generator: Fall often brings unpredictable weather, including storms and power outages. Ensure your emergency generator is ready to provide backup power when needed.

By incorporating these safety precautions in your fall home maintenance checklist, you'll have a safe and comfortable home for the cold seasons ahead.