- Inspect & Clean your Gutters
We’ll start with one of the worst Fall chores, as you will need to revisit this one as leaves continue to fall from any nearby trees. Remove leaves & debris as needed to keep your gutters clean and clog free, while checking for any damage or leaks. You gutters should be free of clogs and work to divert water away from your home.
- Check your Roof
While you’re taking the time to check your gutters, it’s a great time to take a quick peak at your roof for any signs of damage or areas in need of repair (If your roof has a high pitch, you may want to have a trusted roofer inspect to be safe). We sometimes have rainy Novembers here in the Triad, so we recommend checking this off the to-do list in October if possible.
- Replace your Air Filters & check your HVAC
Just before I finally cave and turn on the heat in my home, I like to first replace any air filters so clean air is heated throughout the home (not last season’s allergens). Now that the air is getting cooler, it is also a great time to consider having your HVAC system checked to ensure everything is working properly before our coldest Winter days when the heat will be really needed.
Photo by Sergei Solo on Unsplash
- Check Weatherproofing on Windows & Doors
Before freezing temperatures arrive is a great time to check your window & door seals & replacing or adding any weatherstripping or caulking as needed to prevent cold drafts from entering your home in the Winter.
- Inspect any Chimneys & Fireplaces
If you have fireplaces & use them, now is the time to prep your fireplace(s) for use during the Winter season. Consider hiring a professional to come inspect & sweep the chimney, and fireplace, to ensure everything is working properly and any needed repairs are taken care of. Replace any fireplace tools if needed, check the screen, & stock up on any needed fuel (like wood or propane, and if there is a gas line ensure it is working properly).
* NOTE: While a good tip for everyone, if you are a fireplace user, make sure you also do a quick check of your smoke & carbon monoxide alarms, making sure they function properly and replacing any batteries or monitors as needed. *
- Inspect Outdoors Around your Home
Disconnect any garden hoses from your exterior pipes before freezing weather arrives & store away any leftover items from Summer. Keep fallen leaves raked & touch up any landscaping needed on warmer days. If your home has a crawl space, this is also a great time to take a peak under there (or hire someone you trust) and check for any areas of repair, falling insulation, or any other areas of concern.
We hope you find this list helpful & as always if you have any real estate needs that we may be able to help with, from selling or buying a home in the Triad to assistance finding vendors to complete some of the work mention on this list, we are always happy to help!