Autumn is a great time to give the interior & exterior of your home a good walk around, to make repairs and prepare your property for the Winter weather that is to come.
Here are my top 7 Autumn Home Maintenance recommendations:
1. Check your gutters and downspouts for damage & keep them clear of Fall debris.
Clogs and debris from the falling leaves can cause the wood trim at your eaves to rot, and that can invite all kinds of critters into your attic space. Having your gutters and downspouts cleaned before the Winter rains arrive can also help prevent damage, ensure water is diverted away, and does not collect around your foundation.
2. Test your smoke & CO2 detectors.
Change the batteries of your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and be sure to vacuum them with a soft brush attachment. Ensure detectors are installed on every floor of your home.
3. Replace your HVAC filters.
Changing the air filters in your HVAC system is an essential practice, and the change of seasons is a great time to think about doing it.
4. Prepare to store or cover your outdoor furniture.
It’s not quite time to pack away the furniture for outdoor living yet, but make a plan to cover or store them before the first storm of the season is upon us.
5. Schedule a chimney cleaning.
There’s nothing like getting cozy in front of that first fire of the cold season, but use the Fall to clean & inspect your fireplace and chimney to ensure it’s safe to use in the coming months.
6. Take a peek at your roof.
Before the cooler weather starts to settle in, take time to inspect your roof for missing shingles, holes, and weak spots. If you notice anything awry, be sure to schedule an inspection with a trusted local roofing contractor early in the season.
7. Check your doors & windows.
Check your doors and windows to see if there are any openings and cracks. Caulking and sealing these gaps helps prevent water from entering your home and keeps heat from escaping.
Through each home buying & selling process, I utilize numerous local home maintenance professionals. If you have a job that’s just too big for a DIY, give me a shout and I can help you find a local pro who fits your needs.
You can also check out a list of my most frequently recommended vendors here.
