Fall Home Maintenance
As the vibrant colors of summer fade into the golden hues of autumn, homeowners in Denver need to start preparing their homes for the cooler months ahead. Denver’s weather can be unpredictable during fall, with warm days and chilly nights, and winter often arriving early. A fall home maintenance routine ensures that your home stays in top shape, avoiding potential problems when temperatures plummet. From ensuring energy efficiency to protecting against the elements, this checklist covers everything you need to prepare your home for fall.
Inspect and Clean Gutters
As leaves begin to fall, your gutters will fill up quickly. Clogged gutters can lead to water damage as rain and melting snow overflow and seep into your home’s foundation, walls, or roof.
Clean out all leaves, twigs, and debris to ensure water can flow freely.
Check for signs of wear or damage and repair or replace any sections that are loose, cracked, or rusted.
Install gutter guards to minimize future debris buildup.
Seal Windows and Doors
Drafts around windows and doors are common culprits for losing heat in the fall and winter months. Ensuring these areas are properly sealed can improve energy efficiency and save you money on heating bills.
Check for gaps or cracks around windows and doors.
Use weatherstripping for windows and door sweeps for exterior doors to keep warm air in and cold air out.
Apply caulk to seal gaps in window frames and door trims.
Inspect and repair window screens for any tears or holes.
Service the Heating System
As temperatures drop, your heating system will soon become the most important part of your home. To avoid breakdowns when you need it most, it’s essential to have your system serviced before the cold weather arrives.
Schedule a professional HVAC inspection to ensure your furnace, heat pump, or boiler is working efficiently.
Replace or clean air filters to ensure proper airflow and reduce allergens.
Test your thermostat to make sure it’s functioning correctly and consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat for optimal energy savings.
Inspect the Roof
Denver’s snowfall can be heavy, and your roof will bear the brunt of it. A thorough inspection in the fall can prevent leaks or damage when winter arrives.
Look for missing, cracked, or curling shingles and have them repaired.
Inspect the flashing around chimneys, skylights, and vents to ensure no gaps are allowing water to seep in.
Clean off debris like leaves and branches that can accumulate on the roof and retain moisture, which can lead to mold or rot.
Consider hiring a professional if you’re uncomfortable climbing onto your roof or if your roof is particularly steep.
Prepare Your Lawn and Garden
Fall is the perfect time to prep your lawn and garden for a healthy return in the spring. Cooler weather allows for more efficient lawn care practices, setting the foundation for lush growth next year.
Rake leaves regularly to prevent mold or mildew from forming on your lawn.
Aerate your lawn to allow nutrients, water, and air to reach the roots more effectively.
Fertilize your lawn with a fall-specific formula to strengthen grassroots before the winter freeze.
Trim trees and bushes that may have been overgrown during the summer. Look for dead or damaged branches that could break under the weight of snow.
If you have an irrigation system, blow out the water lines before the first freeze to prevent pipes from bursting.
Check Chimneys and Fireplaces
If you’re planning on enjoying cozy fires this fall and winter, now is the time to make sure your chimney and fireplace are ready for use.
Have your chimney professionally cleaned to remove soot, creosote, and any debris that may have accumulated over the year. This reduces the risk of chimney fires.
Inspect the damper and chimney cap to ensure they are working correctly and that no animals have nested inside the chimney.
For gas fireplaces, have a technician inspect the burner, ignition, and venting system to make sure everything is functioning safely.
Drain Outdoor Faucets and Store Hoses
Denver’s cold temperatures can freeze any remaining water in your outdoor pipes and hoses, causing them to crack and burst. Prevent costly repairs by winterizing your exterior water sources.
Disconnect all garden hoses and store them indoors to prevent freezing.
Shut off the water supply to any outdoor faucets and drain them to avoid frozen pipes.
Consider installing frost-free spigots for added protection.
Inspect the Attic and Basement
Your attic and basement are key areas that can be overlooked during regular maintenance, but they play a crucial role in your home’s energy efficiency and overall protection against the elements.
Check the insulation in your attic to ensure it’s adequate for the colder months. Consider adding more insulation if necessary to prevent heat from escaping.
Look for any signs of moisture, leaks, or pests in both your attic and basement.
Ensure that your attic vents are clear of obstructions to maintain proper airflow and prevent moisture buildup.
Inspect the sump pump in your basement to ensure it’s working properly, especially as fall rains increase the risk of basement flooding.
Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
With your heating system running and fireplaces in use, the risk of fire or carbon monoxide leaks increases during the colder months. Protect your family by ensuring all safety detectors are in working order.
Test each smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector in your home.
Replace the batteries if they’re old or near expiration.
Install additional detectors in key areas like near bedrooms, the kitchen, and any rooms with fireplaces or gas appliances.
Seal Cracks in the Driveway and Walkways
Water can seep into small cracks in your driveway or walkways, and when it freezes, it expands, causing larger cracks and damage. Prevent this by addressing any issues before winter sets in.
Inspect your driveway, sidewalks, and walkways for cracks or gaps.
Seal any cracks with a filler or caulk to prevent water from getting in.
Consider having larger cracks professionally repaired to avoid costly damage down the line.
Store Outdoor Furniture and Equipment
As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, it’s time to put away your outdoor furniture and equipment to protect them from the elements.
Clean and store patio furniture, grills, and outdoor cushions in a dry, covered area.
Cover larger items like outdoor fire pits or barbecue grills with waterproof covers.
If you have any outdoor tools like lawnmowers or trimmers, drain the gas and perform any necessary maintenance before storing them for the season.
Final Thoughts
Tackling this fall home maintenance checklist ensures your Denver home is well-prepared for the colder months ahead. Whether you’re safeguarding against drafts, ensuring your heating system is in peak condition, or prepping your lawn for the winter, these tasks will not only protect your home but also enhance its longevity. By taking the time now to maintain your property, you can enjoy a warm, worry-free home throughout the fall and winter seasons.
