As we embrace the crisp air of fall, there’s no better time to prepare your home for the colder months ahead.
Fall isn’t just about cozy sweaters and pumpkin spice — it’s also a crucial season for homeowners to stay ahead of potential winter wear and tear. Tackling key maintenance tasks now can save you from costly headaches later, ensuring your home stays in top shape all year long.
At Lambie Homes, we know that protecting your investment means more than just building a beautiful house — it’s about keeping it well-maintained through every season. That’s why we’ve created this easy-to-follow fall home maintenance checklist, packed with practical tips to help you prepare your home for whatever winter throws your way.
Let’s get started!
Clean Your Gutters
With the abundance of leaves falling during autumn, your gutters can quickly fill up and become clogged.
It’s easy to overlook this task, but clean gutters are vital for preventing water damage. When gutters are blocked, rainwater can overflow, leading to damage to your home’s foundation, siding and even causing ice dams during winter.
To clean your gutters, use a sturdy ladder and a small scoop to remove debris. If heights aren’t your thing, hiring a professional is always an excellent option to ensure safety.
Check the Roof for Damage
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements, so it’s necessary to have it inspected thoroughly before winter weather hits.
Look for damaged or missing shingles, any signs of leaks or areas where debris like branches might be stuck. Catching minor issues early can prevent them from turning into major headaches once snow and ice start to accumulate.
For a quick check, use binoculars to scan the roof from the ground, but if you notice anything concerning, calling in a professional roofer is the safest way to handle repairs.
Seal Windows and Doors
Sealing drafts around windows and doors not only makes your home more comfortable during the colder months but also helps lower your energy bills. Heat can easily escape through gaps, making your furnace work harder than it needs to.
But simple fixes like adding weather stripping or caulking around the edges of windows and doors can make a big difference. Be sure to inspect the seals regularly and replace them if they show signs of wear.
Inspect the HVAC System
As fall progresses, it’s time to think about how your HVAC system will perform when the temperature dips.
Scheduling a professional inspection of your heating system ensures everything is running efficiently and safely. A quick tune-up can also extend the life of your system and catch any potential issues before they turn into costly repairs.
Remember to change your air filters and test your thermostat. This easy task can improve air quality and keep your system running smoothly.
Prepare Your Yard for Winter
Taking care of your yard now can save you a lot of work come spring.
Trim trees and bushes to prevent branches from breaking and causing damage during winter storms. Rake up fallen leaves to avoid smothering your grass and consider aerating and fertilizing your lawn to help it survive the colder months.
Also, don’t forget to shut down and drain your irrigation system before the first freeze. This prevents pipes from bursting, which can lead to expensive repairs.
Protect Outdoor Water Systems
As temperatures drop, outdoor water systems become vulnerable to freezing, which can cause pipes to burst.
To avoid this, make sure to drain and store hoses and cover outdoor faucets with foam covers or insulating tape. If you have an irrigation system, shutting it down properly is essential to prevent winter damage.
Make sure all water shutoff valves are working properly and, if necessary, turn off the water supply to outdoor faucets.
Keep Your Home in Top Shape Year-Round
Completing these fall home maintenance tasks is a smart way to protect your home and avoid more significant problems down the road. At Lambie Homes, we know that a well-maintained home is vital to ensuring it remains a safe and comfortable space for your family year after year.
Since 1978, Lambie Homes has been building homes throughout the Kansas City region, offering our homeowners Unparalleled Lifestyles Built for Life. If you’re looking for a new home that combines quality craftsmanship with thoughtful design, we invite you to explore our communities.
Find your new home today and discover how Lambie Homes can create a better building experience for you.