Fall Home Maintenance: 14 Tasks for a Well-Kept Home

As the seasons shift and cooler weather approaches, it’s crucial to focus on maintaining and protecting your home. Whether you’ve received recommendations from a home inspector or you’re proactively ensuring your home’s well-being, this comprehensive fall home maintenance guide has you covered.

1. Leaf Management for a Healthy Lawn

Effort Level: Easy

Best Time: Early to mid-fall

Raking leaves may be debated in the horticultural world, but if your yard is accumulating leaves rapidly, it’s time to act. Steven Lichtenfels, founder of Curb Appeal Sells Homes, advises timely leaf removal to prevent slip hazards and maintain a healthy lawn. Composting leaves for future use is an eco-friendly option, contributing to nutrient-rich soil.

2. Nurture Your Lawn: Planting Grass Seed

Effort Level: Moderate

Best Time: Early Fall (45 days before the first frost)

Planting grass seed is an investment in a lush, vibrant lawn. Proper preparation, including soil testing, is crucial. Consider factors like sunlight, shade, and soil type. Fall provides optimal conditions for seed growth, ensuring a green lawn in the coming seasons.

3. Preserve Outdoor Furniture

Effort Level: Easy

Best Time: Before temperature drop

For those in colder climates, storing outdoor furniture prevents damage during winter. Power wash plastic, vinyl, or metal furniture to remove grime. Use a water and outdoor bleach solution for mildew. If you can enjoy outdoor spaces during fall and winter, clean furniture for a fresh start.

4. Winterize Your Outdoor Water Supply

Effort Level: Relatively Easy

Best Time: Before the first freeze (late September or early October)

Prevent potential winter damage by turning off outdoor water supplies, including sprinkler systems. Pay attention to garden hoses, draining and storing them indoors. Freezing water can lead to burst pipes, causing costly repairs and inconveniences.

5. Protect Vulnerable Plants from the Cold

Effort Level: Easy

Best Time: At the onset of cooler temperatures

Identify plants susceptible to cold weather and bring them indoors or provide protection. Conduct research on individual plant needs and avoid overwatering before transitioning them indoors. Planning ahead with cold-resistant plants minimizes seasonal relocation efforts.

6. Revitalize Your Home’s Exterior with Fresh Paint

Effort Level: Moderate to High

Best Time: Before the temperature drops significantly

Exterior paint plays a vital role in home aesthetics and protection. Address flaking or peeling paint by removing it with sandpaper. Clean surfaces thoroughly before applying primer and paint. Consider professional assistance for a meticulous finish.

7. Illuminate Your Outdoors: Outdoor Lighting Check

Effort Level: Low to Medium

Best Time: September

Ensure outdoor lighting is functional as days shorten. Survey your outdoor lights, replacing bulbs as needed. Implementing a high-quality automatic timer enhances energy efficiency and ensures a well-lit exterior.

8. Clear Gutters for Optimal Rainwater Flow

Effort Level: Moderate

Best Time: Late Fall

Clogged gutters can lead to issues like mold and roof damage. Regular cleaning prevents overflow, preserving your home’s foundation and exterior. Consider professional assistance for this less-than-pleasant task.

9. Maintain Your Dryer Vent

Effort Level: Low

Best Time: Fall, before back-to-school season

Clean dryer vents annually to prevent fire hazards. Vacuum and brush out lint, ensuring optimal dryer performance. This simple task safeguards your home and aligns with National Fire Protection Association recommendations.

10. Address Cracks in Driveways and Walkways

Effort Level: Moderate

Best Time: Before winter

Cracks in driveways and walkways worsen with freezing temperatures. Utilize asphalt or concrete patch compounds to fill cracks, preventing further deterioration. Tackling this task in the fall home maintenance ensures stability throughout the winter.

11. Ensure a Safe Fireplace: Chimney Inspection

Effort Level: Moderate

Best Time: Fall, before increased fireplace use

Hire a professional chimney sweep for a thorough inspection. They’ll remove the creosote and identify potential issues. Pair this with checking fire extinguishers to enhance home safety.

12. Prepare Your Heating System

Effort Level: Moderate

Best Time: Before winter temperatures set in

Schedule a professional HVAC checkup for optimal heating system performance. Attend to radiator-specific needs, ensuring they’re ready for colder months. Reversing ceiling fans to circulate warm air is a pro tip for added efficiency.

13. Check Detectors for Home Safety

Effort Level: Easy

Best Time: Regularly, especially before the heating season

Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors regularly. Replace batteries and ensure proper functioning to safeguard against potential emergencies.

14. Seal Gaps: Re-caulk Window and Door Casings

Effort Level: Moderate

Best Time: Before winter chill sets in

Prevent energy loss by sealing gaps with caulk. This DIY-friendly task enhances insulation and reduces heating costs. Consider professional assistance for a flawless finish.

By following this comprehensive fall home maintenance checklist, you’ll ensure a well-kept home and minimize the risk of issues as colder weather approaches.