Fall is the perfect time to get your home ready for the cold weather ahead. Most homeowners think about raking leaves, cleaning gutters, and putting away the lawn furniture. Those are all important tasks, but there are several other areas around the house that deserve attention before winter arrives.
A little preventive maintenance now can help you avoid unexpected repairs, improve energy efficiency, and protect your home from damage during the colder months.
Here are some often-overlooked items to add to your fall home maintenance checklist.
1. Disconnect Garden Hoses and Check Outdoor Faucets
2. Check Weatherstripping Around Doors and Windows
3. Inspect the Foundation and Check Drainage
4. Look Up at the Roof, Flashing, and Attic Vents
5. Check Your Heating System Before You Need It
6. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms
7. Inspect Decks, Steps, Railings, and Walkways
8. Don’t Forget the Dryer Vent
9. Clean Around the Air Conditioner and Outdoor Equipment
10. Check Basement and Crawl Space Areas
11. Trim Trees and Clear Yard Debris