Ultimate Checklist for Fall Home Maintenance

Outdoor Maintenance

1. Maintain Your Roof
   Fall is the ideal time for roof maintenance due to the mild temperatures. Asphalt shingles should be installed between 5°C and 29°C for optimal adhesion. Work done outside this range may result in brittle shingles and ineffective sealant. Ensure shingles are properly sealed before winter to prevent damage from snow and ice.
2. Maintain Your Lawn
   Prepare your yard for spring by completing the following tasks:
   • Final Mowing: Trim your lawn to about two inches.
   • Aeration: Aerate the soil to help grass access nutrients.
   • Applying Pre-Emergent: Use pre-emergent herbicides to prevent winter weed growth.
   • Fertilization: Apply fall fertilizer 2-3 weeks before frost.
   • Protecting Plants: Move sensitive plants indoors during cold spells. Also, inspect for drainage issues such as slopes, erosion, and soil compaction.
3. Maintain Your Downspouts and Gutters
   Clean your gutters to prevent blockages and ice dams. Remove debris, flush with water, and check joints and brackets. Consider installing gutter guards to reduce future maintenance. Address leaks or pooling water around your home to avoid foundation damage.
4. Maintain Your Exterior Plumbing
   Protect your plumbing from freeze damage:
   • Shut Off the Water Supply: Turn off the valve for outdoor faucets and check for leaks.
   • Disconnect Hoses: Remove and store hoses.
   • Drain Faucets: Open outdoor faucets to drain remaining water.
   • Install Faucet Covers: Use insulated covers to protect faucets from freezing.
5. Maintain Your Deck
   Prepare your deck for winter by:
   • Inspecting and Repairing: Check for loose nails, screws, and cracks, and fix them.
   • Power Washing: Clean the deck on a day above 5°C.
   • Applying Stain: Apply a water-repellent stain to prevent damage from ice and snow.
6. Maintain Your Sidewalk and Driveway
   Ensure your concrete and asphalt surfaces are ready for winter:
   • Remove Weeds: Clear weeds from cracks.
   • Repair Cracks: Use caulk for small cracks and sealer for larger ones.
   • Seal Joints: Apply polyurethane caulk to expansion joints.
   • Clean and Seal: Pressure wash and seal surfaces with appropriate sealers before temperatures drop below 5°C.
7. Maintain Your Heating System
   Prepare your heating system by:
   • Replacing Filters: Change filters regularly.
   • Installing a Programmable Thermostat: Improve energy efficiency.
   • Managing Humidity: Use humidifiers to maintain indoor humidity around 35% to feel warmer and reduce heating costs.
8. Maintain Your Swimming Pool
   Winterize your pool to prevent damage:
   • Remove Accessories: Clean and store pool accessories.
   • Deep Clean: Remove debris and balance water chemistry.
   • Lower Water Level: Reduce water level to prevent freezing damage.
   • Drain Equipment: Clear water from lines and store equipment.
   • Add Chemicals: Shock the pool and apply algaecide.
   • Cover the Pool: Use safety or winter covers to protect the pool.
9. Maintain Your Home’s Exterior
   Perform these additional tasks:
   • Trim Vegetation: Cut back trees and shrubs near the house.
   • Prevent Pests: Store firewood away from the home and remove nests.
   • Protect Equipment: Cover outdoor units and store furniture.
   • Maintain Lawn Equipment: Drain fuel from lawn mowers.
   • Inspect Hardware: Check and repair exterior door hardware.

Indoor Maintenance

1. Maintain Your Fireplace
   Schedule a professional chimney cleaning every 2-3 years to prevent fire hazards from combustible deposits. Ensure your fireplace is clean and in safe working order.
2. Maintain Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
   Test and replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Ensure detectors are installed correctly and replace them every 10 years. Consider interconnected alarms for comprehensive coverage.
3. Maintain Your Home’s Interior
   Fall cleaning is crucial for indoor air quality and home maintenance:
   • Dust and Vacuum: Reduce allergens by thoroughly cleaning.
   • Clean Windows: Wash windows on a cloudy day for a streak-free finish.
   • Organize Closets: Declutter and reorganize your wardrobe.
   • Seal Leaks: Use caulk or weather stripping to seal gaps around windows and doors.
   • Clean Appliances: Prepare major kitchen appliances for the holiday season.

By following this checklist, you’ll ensure your home is well-prepared for winter and in good shape for the upcoming spring. You can read the full article with guides by clicking this link.