Inspect the roof and chimney for damage. Inspect any openings in the roof, such as skylight, for signs of leaks.
Check the chimney flashing for gaps and missing or loose pieces. Look for cracks in the masonry. Smaller cracks can be sealed with caulk designed for masonry repair. If you use your fireplace on a regular basis, have a professional clean the chimney. This should be done annually to prevent chimney fires. Test your fireplace flue for a tight seal when closed.
Clean gutters and downspouts throughout the fall season. They can quickly become clogged with dirt and leaves. Check that all support brackets are securely in place, and that water is not coming down behind the gutters. Make sure that water is draining properly. Pooling water can cause damage to foundations, driveways, and walkways.
Early fall is the best time to fertilize and reseed your lawn. Prune your trees and shrubs after the leaves turn to encourage healthy growth.
Clean and store outdoor furniture and cushions. Store cushions in a dry area to prevent cracking and fading over the fall and winter months.
When the weather starts getting colder, turn off the water to your outdoor faucets to prevent pipes from bursting. Remove hoses from spigots, drain and store indoors.
Replace the filter in your furnace and clean the air ducts for higher efficiency and to reduce household dust.
The majority of conditioned air in your home is lost through the windows and doors. Change summer screens to cool weather storm windows and doors. Inspect and repair any loose or damaged window or door frames. Install weather stripping or caulking around windows and doors to prevent drafts and to lower heating bills. Consider adding heavier drapery around drafty windows.
It doesn't take a lot of effort to get your home ready for cold weather. Basic maintenance now will help keep your home warm and heating bills down.
