As the vibrant summer months give way to the cooler days of fall, it’s important to prepare your home for the upcoming season. Proper maintenance can help prevent costly repairs and ensure your home remains comfortable and energy-efficient throughout the fall and winter. Stay ahead of the chill with these essential maintenance tips to get your home ready for fall.
One of the most important tasks to tackle before the fall rains arrive is cleaning your gutters. Gutters play a crucial role in directing water away from your home’s foundation. When they are clogged with leaves, twigs, and other debris, water can overflow and cause damage to your roof, siding, and foundation. Remember that it's best to hire a professional to take care of maintenance in any hard-to-reach places!
Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system will be working hard to keep your home warm as the temperatures drop. Schedule a professional inspection and tune-up to ensure your system is running efficiently. Change the air filters to improve air quality and reduce strain on the system. It’s also a good idea to check for any leaks in your ductwork and seal them to prevent heat loss.
Weatherproofing your home can help you save on energy bills and keep your home warm and cozy. Start by inspecting your windows and doors for drafts. Use weatherstripping and caulk to seal any gaps and cracks. Consider adding or replacing door sweeps to prevent cold air from entering under doors. If you have older windows, you might want to install storm windows or use plastic window insulation kits to improve energy efficiency.
A thorough roof inspection is essential to identify and repair any damage before winter arrives. Have a professional look for missing, damaged, or loose shingles, and check for signs of leaks or water damage in your attic. Addressing roof issues early can prevent more significant problems down the road.
If you have a fireplace, now is the time to have your chimney inspected and cleaned. Creosote buildup in the chimney can be a fire hazard, so it’s important to have it removed before you start using your fireplace. Ensure that the damper opens and closes properly and that the chimney cap is in good condition to keep out debris and animals.
Fall is also a good time to prepare your lawn and garden for the winter. Rake up leaves and debris, and aerate your lawn to promote healthy root growth. Trim trees and shrubs to prevent branches from breaking under the weight of snow and ice. Consider planting fall flowers and covering vulnerable plants to protect them from frost.
By taking these essential maintenance steps, you can ensure your home is ready for the fall season. Not only will these tasks help keep your home in good condition, but they can also improve energy efficiency and reduce the risk of costly repairs. Have questions about best practices for fall preparation? Contact us today!
Tanguay Homes, Inc.
419 Route 105 Suite A,
Newport, Vermont 05855
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 517
Newport, VT 05855
Tanguay Homes of Newport, Vermont specializes in working with out-of-the-area clients. You may sign up to receive daily progress photos, e-mails, and calls. Weekend and late evening appointments are available for your convenience.
Tony Tanguay
President