Fall Home Maintenance Checklist

The end of Summer is approaching so here are some tips to help manage your home maintenance projects.

Work safely and make sure to use the services of a professional if you are unfamiliar with tools, construction or other project requirements. https://countrysiderestoration.com

[1] A complete gutter inspection –– to remove leaves, nests, and debris. After they are cleaned, check for leaks by connecting a hose and spraying up into the gutters. You can have all of this done by a professional or do it yourself.

[2] Check the entire water drainage system –– Downspouts for rainwater need to be clear of obstructions. They also need to push the flow of water away from foundations, walkways, and driveways. Add extensions wherever needed.

[3] External hoses, garden tools –– Disconnect all hoses from the outside spigots and drain them. Turn off exterior faucets. For an older home, you may need to turn off inside valves. Hoses should be stored in a dry place so any remaining water doesn’t freeze when the weather gets cold.

[4] Sprinklers and irrigation systems –– In some climates, irrigation systems may need to be checked and drained. It’s best to have this done by a professional so you can become familiar with the particular needs and maintenance of your home system.

[5] Check all the windows and doors –– specifically the seals caulk. Dry, cracked caulk can lead to inside water damage later. Also, check screens for holes and damages. Small critter can get in through tight spaces.

[6] Inspect all your trees and shrubs –– You should look for damaged or cracked limbs, dead sections and nests. Check around roof-lines, power-lines and other areas that are more susceptible to damage.

[7] Landscaping –– Research your climate zone and cut back bushes, shrubs, and flowers. Leaving these areas unattended can lead to over-growth, which can cause damage to outside areas of the home.

[8] Flowerpots and planters –– Bring all permanent potted plants inside. If you grow new ones every year, empty old soil, remove dead growth and store pots in a dry place until Spring.

[9] Plant Spring bulbs –– Any bulbs you’d like to grow for next Spring should be put in the ground.

[10] Leaves, grass and compost –– Rake the yard to remove any dead leaves or grass then put into a compost pile if you have one. If you don’t have a compost, you’ll need large yard garbage bags to leave at the curb for trash day. Make sure to check your local pick-up ordinances.

[11] Lawn fertilizing –– Using fertilizer in the Fall will help prevent Winter damage and weeds in the Spring. You can check with your local garden center or lawn care professional about which kind of fertilizer is best for your home and lawn care.

[12] The tool shed –– The end of Summer is a great time to organize the shed and prep it for Fall/Winter use. Try moving Summer tools to the back and Winter items to the front for convenience. Check around for leaks and standing water as well. These can be dangerous and potentially cause damage if they freeze during Winter.

[13] Seasonal furniture –– Over time outdoor furniture can lose it’s luster. Power wash all frames and cushions to remove debris, mold and bugs. You can even apply a layer of paint as needed to enhance those once bright colors.

[14] Pool maintenance –– Make sure you know about your climate and when the temperature starts to dip. Mainly you will want to clean and properly close the pool to prevent damages during the Winter months. You can have a professional handle this or work with a local pool center so you can handle it yourself.

[15] Checking your roof –– It’s easy to perform a visual inspection of your roof from the ground. You can use binoculars or find something secure to stand on in order to get a better view. You should look for missing or damaged shingles, remove leaves, debris or other fallen foliage.

[16] Chimney and fireplace check –– If you have a wood fireplace and plan to use it at all, have it inspected and cleaned by a professional. A fire can easily become dangerous inside a soot-cluttered chimney.

[17] Firewood supply –– Do you have enough firewood for the up-coming season? It’s the safest practice to store and cover your firewood away from the house. Stack it so that it can dry completely.

[18] Siding inspection –– Walk around the house and look for holes, cracks and damaged pieces. Small areas can be repaired quite easily if they are caught early. Usually, small damages turn into larger one’s over time.

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