Fall is here, which means colorful leaves, shorter days, and cooler temperatures. It’s that time of year when you can cheer on your favorite football team, bring out the holiday decor, and get cozy by the fire. It’s also time to start preparing your home for the change in seasons. There are many indoor and outdoor household tasks to tackle during these autumn months so you’re prepared for any seasonal storms that might come your way.
To help you get started, we’ve compiled the ultimate fall home maintenance checklist so you can make sure your home is ready. Whether you own a home in Denver or just moved into a house in Philadelphia, keep reading to see how you can complete your home maintenance tasks before autumn turns to winter.
7 exterior fall maintenance tasks
1. Clear your gutters and downspouts
One major fall home maintenance task you’ll want to complete is cleaning out and inspecting your gutters and downspouts. Start by cleaning out any leaves or debris. This will help prevent rot, pests, and rusted gutters. Check gutter support brackets to make sure none are loose. You’ll also want to double-check that water isn’t flowing down behind the gutters, draining, or pooling near the foundation or driveway.
2. Inspect your home’s exterior and roof
Before winter arrives, be sure to inspect the exterior of your home, including the roof. This is a critical step to ensure your home is in the right condition to withstand the weather. If you see signs of peeling paint, this may indicate that your home’s exterior is no longer protected. In that case, consider applying a fresh coat of paint to provide another layer of protection.
When examining the roof, keep an eye out for loose or missing shingles. These are vital layers to protect your home from water damage during the fall and winter months. If you see these signs of damage, it’s better to have your roof repaired before your roof begins to leak during a storm.
3. Have your chimney…