As the leaves turn color and temperatures drop, fall is the perfect time to prepare your home for winter. A few proactive steps now can help prevent costly damage, improve energy efficiency, and keep your home safe and cozy.

Here’s your ultimate Fall Home Maintenance Checklist to get everything in order before the real chill sets in.

🧹 1. Clean Gutters & Downspouts

Falling leaves can clog your gutters fast. If left unattended, clogged gutters can lead to roof damage, water leaks, and even foundation issues.

• Remove leaves and debris

• Check for sagging or loose sections

• Ensure downspouts direct water away from your foundation

🏠 2. Inspect Your Roof

Before snow and ice hit, take a look (or hire a pro) to inspect your roof.

• Look for missing, damaged, or curled shingles

• Check for signs of wear around vents and chimneys

• Examine flashing and sealant for cracks

🔥 3. Get Your Heating System Ready

You don’t want to discover your heat isn’t working when the first freeze hits.

• Change your furnace filter

• Schedule a professional HVAC inspection and tune-up

• Bleed radiators (for hot-water heating systems)

• Test your thermostat and replace batteries if needed

🔥 4. Inspect & Clean the Fireplace

If you use a fireplace, fall is the time to get it in shape.

• Have the chimney professionally cleaned

• Check the damper to ensure it opens and closes properly

• Stock up on seasoned firewood (store it away from your home to prevent pests)

🚪 5. Seal Windows & Doors

Keep warm air in and cold air out by eliminating drafts.

• Install or replace weatherstripping

• Use caulk to seal gaps around window frames

• Add door sweeps if needed

Pro Tip: Hold a lit candle near the edge of a window or door. If the flame flickers, you’ve got a draft.

❄️ 6. Prepare Outdoor Spaces

Get your exterior ready to hibernate.

• Drain and store garden hoses

• Shut off and winterize exterior water lines to prevent freezing

• Clean and cover outdoor furniture

• Trim tree branches away from your house and roof

🧯 7. Safety Check

Fall is a good time to revisit your home’s safety systems.

• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

• Check the expiration date on fire extinguishers

• Review your emergency kit and stock up on essentials (batteries, flashlights, blankets)

🧰 Bonus Tip: Check Your Attic & Insulation

Your attic is a major point of heat loss. Make sure it’s doing its job.

• Look for signs of leaks or moisture

• Ensure insulation is evenly distributed and sufficient

• Check for signs of pests or critters seeking warmth

✅ Final Thoughts

Taking a few hours this fall to handle maintenance can save you from big problems when winter arrives. From roof inspections to sealing drafts, these fall tasks will help keep your home warm, safe, and energy-efficient through the colder months.

Don't wait for the first frost—start your fall maintenance today and head into winter stress-free!