As the vibrant colors of fall sweep in, it’s the perfect time to prepare your home for the cooler months ahead. Fall maintenance isn’t just about keeping your house looking great; it’s about safeguarding it from the harsher weather to come and ensuring everything runs smoothly during the colder season.

Here’s a handy checklist to help you through the essential fall maintenance around the house:

1. Check and Clean Gutters and Downspouts

With falling leaves and autumn rain, gutters can quickly become clogged, leading to water damage. Blocked gutters can cause water to overflow, damaging your roof, siding, and even your foundation.

• Tip: Clean out your gutters regularly and check for leaks or misalignment. Ensure water is being directed away from the house to prevent erosion and basement flooding.

2. Inspect the Roof

The roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. After the summer heat and before the winter snow, fall is an ideal time to inspect for any damage.

• Tip: Look for loose, damaged, or missing shingles, and check for signs of wear around vents, chimneys, and skylights. Repair any issues now to prevent leaks or ice dams in the winter.

3. Seal Windows and Doors – One of A.B.E. Doors & Windows favorite home maintenance tip.

Drafts can significantly increase your heating costs in winter. Ensure that windows and doors are properly sealed to keep the cold air out and warm air in.

• Tip: Check weather stripping and caulking around windows and doors. 

4. Service Your Heating System

As temperatures drop, your heating system will be working overtime. Regular maintenance can improve efficiency and prevent costly repairs.

• Tip: Have a professional inspect and service your furnace, heat pump, or boiler. Replace air filters, check for proper airflow, and test your thermostat to ensure everything is functioning efficiently.

5. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

With the increased use of heating systems in fall and winter, it’s essential to make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are in working order.

• Tip: Replace batteries and test each device. Ensure you have detectors installed on every floor, especially near bedrooms and common areas.

6. Drain and Winterize Outdoor Faucets and Sprinkler Systems

Frozen water in outdoor pipes can cause them to burst, leading to costly repairs. It’s important to drain and shut off outdoor water systems before the first freeze.

• Tip: Disconnect hoses from outdoor faucets, drain them, and store them away. If you have a sprinkler system, hire a professional to blow out any remaining water.

7. Inspect and Clean Your Fireplace

If you have a fireplace, fall is the time to get it ready for cozy winter nights. A poorly maintained fireplace can be a fire hazard.

• Tip: Hire a professional chimney sweep to clean out any built-up creosote. Check for cracks or other damage in the chimney lining and ensure the flue is functioning properly.

8. Trim Trees and Shrubs

Trees and shrubs add beauty to your yard, but overgrown branches can pose a danger to your home during storms or heavy snowfall.

• Tip: Trim back any branches that are close to your home, especially those hanging over the roof. Remove dead or damaged limbs to prevent them from falling during high winds.

Taking the time to complete these fall maintenance tasks will not only protect your home during the colder months but can also help you avoid costly repairs down the road. A little preparation now goes a long way in ensuring your home remains safe, efficient, and comfortable as winter approaches.

A.B.E Doors & Windows wishes you a Happy fall!