While summer is often seen as the peak season for home maintenance tasks like lawn care and spring cleaning, fall brings its own set of maintenance activities. As the weather cools down and winter approaches, it’s important to prepare your home both inside and out. While fall DIY projects may seem less strenuous than summer work, addressing issues in the fall can prevent bigger problems from arising during the winter months. This fall home maintenance checklist covers important seasonal tasks to keep your home in great shape all year long.

Exterior Checks and Cleanups

One of the first items on any fall home maintenance checklist is an exterior inspection and cleanup. Spend time walking around your property looking for any issues that may need attention before winter weather sets in. Check for:

  • Clogged gutters and downspouts: Clean out any leaves, sticks, or other debris from gutters and ensure downspouts are not blocked. Clear gutters are essential to properly divert rainfall away from your foundation.

  • Damaged siding/trim: Inspect wood, vinyl, or other exterior siding for cracks, spots of rot, or damage from storms or insects. Touch up paint or seal wood surfaces to prevent further deterioration over winter.

Fall Home Maintenance To-Do-List - Weaver & Associates

  • Cracked windows/doors: Check for cracks in caulking or weatherstripping around doors and windows. Reseal as needed to maintain energy efficiency.

  • Roof inspection: Look for missing, cracked, or curled shingles that may need replacement. Inspect flashing and vents for damage as well.

  • Landscaping cleanup: Trim back tree branches, bushes, and vines that may interfere with gutters or contact your home. Rake up fallen leaves to prevent clogs.

  • Deck/fence maintenance: Inspect the wood for splinters, cracks, or rotting. Sand, stain, or paint wood surfaces now to protect against winter weathering. Replace damaged boards as needed.

Once inspections are complete, a thorough power washing or cleaning of all exterior surfaces is recommended. This removes dirt, mildew, and algae buildup that can deteriorate materials over time if left unattended. Addressing outdoor issues now prevents costly repairs or replacements next spring.

HVAC System Tune-Up

As temperatures drop, your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system will be working overtime to keep your home comfortable. Ensure it’s up for the job with a pre-winter tune-up. A certified HVAC technician can:

  • Inspect heat exchanger and burners for cracks or damage
  • Check thermostat operation and replace batteries if needed
  • Clean or replace air filters
  • Test safety controls and ensure proper combustion
  • Tighten electrical connections and check wiring
  • Lubricate moving parts
  • Check refrigerant levels and seals (air conditioning check)
  • Identify any repairs or upgrades needed

Catching minor issues now avoids dangerous failures when you need heat most. Consider scheduling tune-ups annually to maximize system efficiency and lifespan. An investment of a few hundred dollars is much better than an unexpected replacement costing thousands.

Plumbing Inspections and Drain Prep

Exposed plumbing is vulnerable to freezing temperatures, so take preventative steps this fall. Locate your outdoor water lines and hose bibs, then:

  • Disconnect and drain garden hoses from outside faucets
  • Shut off, drain, and store any irrigation systems
  • Blow out or disconnect backflow preventers from sprinkler systems
  • Insulate pipes and exterior faucets with weatherproof insulating tape or materials
  • Check pipe insulation for damage and replace as needed

Your 8-Step Fall Home Maintenance Checklist | Cardinal Financial

Indoors, perform the following drain preparations:

  • Clean out plungers or augers and store them near problem drain areas
  • Replace worn washers, gaskets, and flapper valves to prevent future leaks
  • Pour a cup of baking soda, then 1⁄2 cup vinegar down seldom-used drains. Let fizz, then flush with boiling water to clear buildup.

With pipes and drains winterized, you’ll face fewer frozen or burst pipes when temperatures plunge. Consider installing shutoff valves in accessible areas as an added safeguard against emergencies.

Prep Appliances and Energy Sources

As leaves fall, prep small appliances and energy sources with these tasks:

  • Check extension cords for cracks or exposed wires and discard unsafe ones.
  • Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, changing batteries if needed.
  • Clean or replace furnace filters and inspect heat lamps.
  • Clean out dryer vents and lint traps to reduce fire risks.
  • Inspect the fireplace chimney for blockages and have it professionally cleaned if needed.
  • Stock up on firewood or other heating fuel sources like pellets or oil.
  • Drain and winterize outdoor faucets and in-ground sprinklers before the first frost.
  • Cover wells/cisterns and bleed outside pipes if in a freezing climate.
  • Check portable generators and refuel stabilizers as needed.

Taking a bit of time now ensures all heating, cooking, and safety equipment are ready when bad weather rolls in. This protects your family, home, and wallet during the long winter months ahead.

Indoor Cleaning and Preparation

While you’re at it, channel your inner neat freak with these fall interior tasks:

  • Deep clean windows inside and out to let in winter sunlight.
  • Install storm windows or insulating window films for maximum efficiency.
  • Wash walls and clean baseboards to remove summer dust and debris.
  • Vacuum curtains, wash throws, and tidy upholstery for coziness.
  • Thoroughly clean air vents/returns of dust buildup before the heating season.
  • Clean and sanitize bathrooms, especially around tubs and tiles.
  • Scrub kitchen cabinets, and appliances and sweep under the fridge/stove.
  • Thoroughly shampoo carpets or refinish hardwood floors as desired.
  • Inspect attic, garage, and storage areas for the organization. Toss unused items.
  • Check the basement for moisture issues or signs of pests/damage.
  • Top off caulk and weatherstripping as needed around doors and windows.

This eliminates extra chores while letting winter sunlight fully brighten your living spaces all season long. Decluttering also makes tasks like holiday decorating more enjoyable.

Home Safety Checks

With holiday gatherings upcoming, perform these critical home safety tasks:

  • Check operation and mounting of smoke and CO alarms, replacing batteries.
  • Test doorbells, lighting, and all electrical outlets with plug-in tester.
  • Reinforce home security with professional alarm inspection if used.
  • Install child safety devices like doorknob covers and sliding door/window locks.
  • Organize first-aid kits and refresh any expired contents.
  • Store chemicals, poisons, and knives securely away from children and pets.
  • Identify shutoff points for gas, water, and electricity in emergencies.
  • Install guardrails and safety gates at the tops/bottoms of stairs as needed.

Taking time to address potential hazards prepares your home for worry-free entertaining and helps prevent mishaps over the busy holiday season. Safe environments let families truly enjoy winter traditions together.

Final Landscaping Tasks

A few last outdoor jobs to tidy up your yard for winter rest:

  • Remove annuals and tender plants vulnerable to frost. Store containers.
  • Cut back and compost fallen leaves, flowers, and plant debris.
  • Prune trees and shrubs, leaving some cover and structure for wildlife.
  • Dig and store tender bulbs like dahlias and cannas in a cool, dry spot.
  • Lay down mulch, straw, or compost around trees/shrubs for moisture retention.
  • Drain garden hoses and store attached fittings indoors. Coil hoses off the ground.
  • Top off bird feeders and install protective baffle cones to discourage pest scatter.

Properly preparing flowerbeds allows them to regenerate lushly next spring. Your yard will snooze peacefully under a natural protective blanket until waking next year.

Don't be overwhelmed by this extensive fall checklist - tackle a few items each weekend to steadily prepare your home without stress. Crossing tasks off provides great seasonal satisfaction as cooler weather arrives. Staying on top of maintenance ensures warm winter comfort with minimal surprises. Focusing on fall preparation keeps moisture, mishaps, and money worries at bay all winter long.