Home Fall Maintenance Tips

As autumn arrives, it is important to implement these home fall maintenance tips. It’s time to prepare for winter’s impact on roofs, siding, and walkways. Here’s a list of essential fall maintenance tips to protect your home and property.

1. Clean the Roof, Gutters and Trim Overhanging Branches:
   I don’t know about you, but I keep a maintenance check list for my home. Be sure to clear leaves and debris from gutters and roofs to prevent ice dams and leaks. Also prune back any creeping vines to deter pests. If you are not comfortable on a ladder, hire a licensed professional.
2. Rake Leaves:
   Regularly clear leaves to prevent lawn damage and slipping hazards. It’s good exercise and fresh air always makes for a good night’s rest. Raking leaves is a fall maintenance job every property owner needs to tackle.
3. Check Weatherstripping and Insulation:
   Replace worn weatherstripping to prevent drafts, help reduce heating costs and increase comfort.  This is important because weatherstripping rots and no one wants to feel a draft when you’re ready to relax.
4. Replace HVAC Filters:
   Have your heating system serviced to ensure efficient heating. Replace the filter in the HVAC system before heavy winter use.  You will be glad you maintained your HVAC system; the heat always seems to breakdown on the coldest night over the weekend.
5. Patch Holes:
   Seal small holes to prevent critters from entering. Larger gaps may need wire mesh or sheet metal for full coverage. You may want to consult a pest control company. This is important, once pests get into your home, they multiply and are extremely difficult to get rid of.
6. Drain Exterior Faucets:
   Turn off water valves and drain hose bibs to prevent pipe bursts. Once the water is off, leave faucets slightly open to allow ice expansion if necessary. No one wants a water valve or hose to burst, makes for a messy spring.
7. Drain the Sprinkler System:
   Turn off the main supply and open each zone valve to drain remaining water and prevent frozen pipes.  You want to ensure that come springtime, you are ready to water with no extra headaches or maintenance costs.
8. Clean the Chimney:
   For homes with fireplaces, hire a chimney professional to clean your fireplace and chimney.  A clean chimney will prevent fire hazards from creosote buildup. Also have them check dampers and spark arrestors as well. If you use your fireplace as much as I do, this is a must do task!
9. Once Over Home Safety Inspection:
   Secure loose gutters, decking and railings, especially on outdoor stairs, to prevent slips. You may want to consider adding non-slip coatings for extra protection on your outdoor stairs. Winter roars in like a lion, it’s not a good idea to not be prepared and use extra preventative measures to assure your safety.
10. Empty the Septic System: 
    Have your septic system cleaned out on a yearly basis.  It’s always better to have a preventative mentality, this way you can avoid a huge repair cost.

Tackle these home fall maintenance tips now to avoid emergency winter repairs, save money, and protect your home and property.

LeeAnn DeLeo, Real Estate Professional
(203) 253-4567
leeann.deleo@gmail.com

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