As we welcome fall, it’s important to start preparing our homes for the cooler temperature of the season. One step in maintaining your house is tackling basic tasks to get ready for winter. Don’t wait until the snow begins; here are fall home maintenance tasks every homeowner should complete to ensure the property is ready for the colder months ahead.
Basic Home Maintenance for Fall and Winter
1. Clean the Gutters
As the leaves fall, they will undoubtedly land in your guttering and may lead to clogs. Clogged gutters allow water to overflow. Moisture may seep under your roofing materials and behind the siding, leading to water damage and mold growth. Clean the channels while the weather is pleasant so rain and snowmelt will flow away from your home and foundation.
2. Inspect the Roof
The summer heat and extreme temperatures may cause your roofing materials to deteriorate. Examine the roof carefully for damages or defects. If you notice missing, cracked, or warped shingles or wear, hire a professional contractor to repair the roof before winter. Keeping the roof in good condition is essential because it protects your house from the elements.
3. Perform a Home Energy Audit
Fall is a great time to check your home’s energy efficiency and identify areas that need improvement. Inspect the windows and doors for drafty areas. Hire a professional inspector to conduct a more thorough energy audit to pinpoint energy efficiency issues such as inadequate insulation, air leaks, and other concerns.
4. Test the Smoke Detectors
Test the smoke detectors monthly and install new batteries if necessary. With the cold winter weather, you’ll spend more time indoors using the fireplace and heating appliances. Protect yourself and your loved ones from smoke and fire by ensuring the smoke detectors function correctly.
5. Fall Home Maintenance: Winterize Your Plumbing
Freezing temperatures can cause water pipes to burst. As such, it is necessary to winterize your plumbing before cold weather arrives to prevent issues, including water damage. Insulate exposed pipes with heat tape or foam insulation. Hire a professional plumber to inspect thoroughly and ensure all water lines are shielded from the weather.
Preparing your home for winter requires some work, but these tasks are essential and manageable. Follow the above tips to ensure the property is ready for cooler weather. Performing fall maintenance prevents damage to your home, saves you money on energy bills, and assures your family’s safety and comfort through the winter season.
Certainty Home Inspections provides inspection services to customers in Kentucky and Indiana. Contact us to request an appointment.