End Of Summer Home Maintenance Checklist: What You Need To Get Done Before Fall
As summer draws to a close, did you know that nearly 70% of homeowners neglect crucial seasonal maintenance tasks? It can lead to costly repairs down the line. This blog post serves as your essential end of summer home maintenance checklist which will help ensure your home is ready for the upcoming winter months. We’ll outline all the critical tasks that should be completed now, ranging from scheduling a furnace checkup to inspecting your gutters, so you can tackle them effectively and avoid any last-minute scrambling before the first snow hits.
1. Schedule a Furnace Checkup
One of the most important checks you can schedule this end of summer is a furnace checkup. Your heating system works hard during the winter months, and ensuring it operates efficiently can save you money on your energy bills. A professional technician can assess the condition of your furnace, change filters, and even make recommendations for keeping your home warm throughout the winter.
2. Clean Up the Yard
As the summer blooms give way to autumn leaves, it’s critical to get your yard cleaned up to avoid damage and decay in your landscape. Rake fallen leaves and gather any branches or debris. Not only does this create a more visually appealing yard, but it also reduces the risk of pests finding shelter in your foliage. Furthermore, prepare your garden for winter by planting fall flowers or handling any perennials that need dividing.
3. Inspect Gutters and Downspouts
Gutters and downspouts play a vital role in directing water away from your home and preventing water damage. Ensure you clean them thoroughly. Clogged gutters can cause water overflow, which may lead to basement flooding or damage to your foundation. It’s wise to inspect your downspouts for blockages, ensuring they redirect water at least 5-10 feet away from your home.
4. Check Your Exterior Doors and Windows
Check for any drafts around your doors and windows before the cold weather sets in. Replacing worn-out weatherstripping or sealing up any cracks can drastically improve your home’s energy efficiency. You’ll be amazed at how much it can lower your heating costs! If the frames are starting to show damage, consider whether repairs or replacements would be more beneficial.
5. Look at Your Roof
Inspect both the roof and the attic. Check for missing shingles, curling edges, or any sagging areas. Preparing your roof now can prevent leaks and severe weather damage down the line. Inside, look for signs of moisture or water stains in the attic. If you see any red flags, now is the time to assess whether a small repair is needed or if you should consider a roofing professional.
6. Prepare Your Outdoor Plumbing
No one wants to deal with frozen pipes as winter hits. Drain and store garden hoses, disconnect any outdoor plumbing, and insulate exposed pipes. Also, consider scheduling a check for your irrigation system or outdoor faucets to ensure that everything is winter-ready. If you know winter temperatures in your area reach freezing, this step is essential!
7. Inspect Decks and Outdoor Living Spaces
Summer is typically the time for fun in your outdoor spaces, but don’t forget about the wear and tear that comes with it. Inspect your decks for any loose boards, stains, or damage. If there are any rotten boards, now is the time to replace them to prevent slips or potential hazards in the future. Cleaning your outdoor furniture and properly storing it during the cold months can extend its life and make it ready to use when summer rolls back around.
8. Make a List of “We’ll Get to It Later” Projects
Summer often leaves homeowners with a laundry list of small projects that they promised themselves they would tackle. Get organized and list out those small home improvements that you’ve put off. By creating a physical list, you can start prioritizing what needs immediate attention and what can be pushed until a later date.
9. Don’t Wait for That First Snow to Get It Done
Finally, consider this: by the time the first snowflake falls, it may be too late to complete some of these tasks. Waiting could result in icy conditions making yard work difficult or significantly impacting your home’s function as the weather changes.
Summary
From scheduling your furnace checkup to inspecting your roof, these tasks constitute crucial steps toward preparing your home for the winter season and avoiding potential problems later on. Protecting your home against harsh weather can save you time, stress, and money.
By maintaining your home now, you also set the stage for smoother operations as the winter weather rolls in. Consider using us for all your small maintenance and handyman projects that need handling before winter strikes – Contact us today for a free estimate or consultation. The earlier you tackle these responsibilities, the more peace of mind you’ll have as the seasons change. Remember, being proactive pays off!
