September 19

Fall Home Maintenance Projects

Now is the right time to start completing your fall home maintenance projects. Getting your home ready for colder weather is essential to keeping your home up to the task of keeping your family warm and secure in the colder winter months ahead. The following home maintenance tips will help keep your home in top condition. 

Key Fall Home Maintenance Tasks

1. Prepare Your HVAC System

Your HVAC system works hard year-round to keep your home’s interior comfortable and should be professionally inspected long before cold weather hits. Regularly changing the filters in your HVAC system can significantly improve its efficiency and longevity. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that regularly changing your furnace filter can save anywhere from 5 to 15% on your utility bills. Furnace filters are designed to maintain healthy air quality. Look at the MERV (minimum efficiency reporting value) number when shopping. The higher the number, the better the air filtration is.

2. Clean the Gutters

Gutters work with your roof; when they are blocked or clogged, your roof and the interior of your home can be at risk. Ensuring your gutters and downspouts are clean helps keep rain and melting snow moving freely off your roof and away from your home’s foundation. Clean your gutters twice a year to prevent leaks, damaged gutters, and foundation problems.

3. Seal Up Cracks and Air Leaks

Check your windows, doors, and attic for air leakage that can cause unwanted drafts and higher utility bills. Replace old or loose caulking around windows, doors, and between siding and trim. Check places where pipes and wires enter your home as well. Preventing moisture and air from getting inside your walls is one of the least expensive and most important ways to protect your home. Make sure you purchase an exterior caulk and pick a nice day when the temperature is above 50 degrees to get the best results.

4. Yard Cleanup

As you are checking the exterior of your home, be sure to clean away any fallen leaves or yard debris near your home. Leaves and other debris create a desirable place for mice and other pests to hide. Fall is also an excellent time to trim overgrown shrubs and tree branches. If any tree branches could impact your roof during a winter storm, hire a professional to trim them back.

5. Winterize Outdoor Water Systems 

Remove all water hoses and sprayers from your outdoor spigots and turn off the water supply to outdoor faucets. It’s crucial to do this before freezing temperatures arrive, as hoses can swell and burst. Drain your underground sprinkler system. Even buried irrigation lines can freeze, leading to broken sprinkler heads and burst pipes. 

6. Prepare Your Roof for Winter Weather 

While there is never a good time to deal with a leaking roof, winter is probably the worst. A thorough roof inspection is an often overlooked home maintenance project, but it is vital. Experts recommend a roof inspection each spring and fall to keep your roof in good condition. You may be able to spot some problems safely from ground level by using a pair of binoculars.

Problems to look for include:

  • Cracked, buckled, or missing shingles
  • Loose or damaged flashing
  • Moss or lichen buildup
  • Tree and leave debris

Some homeowners inspect their roofs, and others hire a professional to complete an inspection. If you are not comfortable working on your roof or cannot do so safely, hire an experienced roofing contractor. Many roofing contractors offer free roof inspections. Locating and repairing minor problems helps prevent costly repairs and extends the life of your roof.

Preventative Maintenance Saves Time and Money

Taking care of these home maintenance projects before winter weather arrives can save you headaches down the road. Many of these projects can be completed by a handy DIYer. Taking the time to complete these projects before winter weather arrives will save money on utility bills and prevent costly damage to your home. Regular roof maintenance is important to safeguard your home and your family.

Work With a Trusted Local Roofing Company

Since 1999, Brian Dawson Roofing has installed residential and commercial roofing systems throughout the greater St. Louis region. Because all of our work is done under warranty and fully insured, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your new roof is dependable and long-lasting. 

Contact us online or at (636) 733-6435 to schedule a free inspection and consultation. Our experienced professionals will arrive on time, equipped with state-of-the-art equipment to detect leaks and other problems your roof may be facing. Our mission is to provide quality roofing services and top-notch customer service, all at a competitive price.

 


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