Must-Have Fall Home Maintenance Checklist
The end of summer is the perfect time to catch up on maintenance for your home. With a whole summer packed with fun and relaxation, your chore list has likely begun to accumulate. Before the colder weather sets in, take advantage of these next few weeks to get your home in order with Inspect-It 1st’s fall home maintenance checklist.
Fall Home Maintenance Checklist
Follow these tips to make sure your home is in tip-top shape and ready for the changing seasons.
Check Your Roof
If trees surround your home, it’s important to inspect your roof and gutters before the leaves begin to fall. Check your roof for any damaged or missing shingles to ensure it stays protected during the impending cooler weather. While checking the status of your roof, keep an eye out for clogged or damaged gutters as well. Sticks, leaves, and other debris can pile up fast in gutters and require extensive time and work to clean them thoroughly. Consider installing leaf guards to help keep them clean and free of debris.
Prepare for Cooler Weather
Examine your windows and doorways for any gaps. Leaving space can not only let your warm air escape and cool air enter but also can leave your home susceptible to possible water damage. To fill any gaps, apply a fresh coat of caulk to keep things sealed shut. To further protect your home from escaping air or potential water damage, you can install weather stripping as well.
Remove Outdoor Hoses
If you live in an area where temperatures drop significantly, it’s a good idea to remove your outdoor garden hose. Freezing temperatures can cause the pipes and faucets to burst, leaving your home susceptible to minor leaks or serious water damage. To remove your hoses, be sure to drain them entirely and wind them in a coil for convenient storage indoors.
Inspect your HVAC System
While the temperatures are still pleasant, consider getting a professional inspection of your HVAC system. A technician can inspect your unit to ensure everything is in working order and prepared for the changing seasons. The best time to get an HVAC system inspection is before a malfunction occurs, so your home is never without cool air or heat. If you’d rather check your HVAC system yourself, refer to this guide for easy-to-follow steps.
Fireplace Maintenance
For homes with a wood-burning fireplace, it’s necessary to get a proper inspection done by a professional. During the inspection, a licensed technician can sweep the chimney, maintenance the flue, and check the overall condition of the fireplace. Chimney sweep companies often book many weeks in advance due to the increased demand in the fall season, so it’s best to schedule an appointment as early as you can.
For more tips on how to prepare your home for fall, contact Inspect-It 1st! We can help you develop a customizable fall home maintenance checklist to ensure your home is ready for the changing of the seasons. To get started, call us today at (877) 392-6278 or find your local IIF office online.