As the crisp air of fall rolls in, homeowners know it’s time to prepare their homes for the colder months ahead. Maintenance during the fall can prevent costly repairs and keep your home in tip-top shape.
Here are seven expert-approved tasks that professionals always prioritize in their own homes during the fall season.
Armed with the ultimate cleaning supplies, follow our pros' advice to give your home some crucial TLC this fall...
1. Check your gutters
Gutters play a crucial role in diverting rainwater away from your home, and knowing how to clean gutters is essential. As leaves start to fall, gutters can quickly become clogged, leading to water damage or ice dams later on.
Don Schneider, Brand President of Mighty Dog Roofing, says, 'One thing I never skip is cleaning the gutters. I mean, we all know fall is the season when leaves and debris can quickly clog things up, and that’s where issues start.
'The steps are pretty straightforward. First, make sure you’ve got a stable ladder. I always secure mine with a clamp for safety. Once you’re up there, clear out the debris, especially in the downspouts. You want water to flow freely, so if anything’s blocked, that’s a problem.
'And while you’re up there, inspect for any signs of damage – rust, holes, sagging. If your gutters aren’t working right, water can start pooling around your foundation or leak into your roof.'
Schneider recommends the Amerimax Gutter Guard, available from Amazon, adding, 'It’s simple to install, and you won’t have to be up there clearing out leaves all season long.'
Jon Christensen, CEO of online home improvement marketplace Bidmii, recommends this Gutter Cleaning Spoon and Scoop Tool from Amazon. He says, 'Its extended reach and ergonomic design makes gutter cleaning safer and more efficient.'
2. Inspect the roof
Your roof is your home’s first defense against the elements. Before the snow hits, inspect it for missing or damaged shingles, cracks, or any signs of wear.
Schneider says, 'While you're up there to address the gutters, another big one for me is inspecting the roof, especially the flashing and shingles. Fall is the perfect time to catch any damage from the summer storms.
'Flashing is important – especially around areas like chimneys and vents – because if there’s even a small gap, water is going to find its way in. I always check to make sure the flashing is secure, and while I’m up there, I take a look at the shingles. If they’re shiny or you see the fiberglass poking through, that’s a sign they’re wearing out.
'You want to catch these problems now, not in the dead of winter when it’s harder (and more expensive) to fix. A small leak can turn into a major headache once the snow starts to melt.'
This Telescoping Aluminum Lightweight Extension Ladder from Amazon is perfect for ensuring safe access to your roof plus its clever design means it can be easily collapsed and stored in a small space.
Check out our handy run-down of 12 exterior areas of your home that are prone to leaks in the rainy season – and how to prevent moisture from getting inside.
3. Trim your trees
Overgrown or damaged trees can pose a serious hazard during winter storms. Experts always make sure to trim branches that hang over the roof or near power lines.
Schneider says, 'It might seem like a small thing, but vegetation can do a lot of damage. I see this all the time – branches rub against shingles, trap moisture, and before you know it, you’ve got mold or pests finding their way inside. So, grab a pair of loppers and trim those branches back at least 6 feet from the roof.'
This Fiskars PowerGear 15" Super Lopper from Target is sturdy and powerful, with a low-friction coating to help the blade glide through the wood.
Removing dead limbs or weak branches reduces the risk of them breaking off during heavy winds or snow, protecting both your home and your family.
4. Seal gaps and cracks
As temperatures drop, pests and cold drafts look for ways to sneak into your home.
Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, says, 'As we move into fall, drafts can make your home less energy-efficient, increasing heating costs. They can also provide a handy route for pests. Fall is the ideal time to inspect and seal any cracks before winter sets in.
'Begin by inspecting the frames of your windows and doors for any visible gaps. Replace any worn or damaged seals, applying weatherstripping around doors or using caulk to seal gaps in window frames.'
Toner recommends Frost King EPDM Rubber Self-Stick Weatherseal Tape, available from Amazon. She says, 'This easy-to-install weatherstripping tape provides excellent insulation, sealing doors and windows to prevent drafts.'
Christensen adds, 'Sealing gaps at fall is so worthwhile since it enhances energy efficiency, leading to a cozier home environment through the colder months.
'I'd recommend GE Advanced Silicone Caulk for Window & Door from Amazon. This durable and flexible caulk is ideal for sealing exterior gaps that can expand and contract with the weather.'
Sealing cracks is among the key steps in our guide to keeping Joro spiders out of your home.
5. Clean the chimney
If you plan to use your fireplace this winter, a chimney inspection and cleaning are must-do tasks.
Toner says, 'If you plan to use your fireplace during the winter, fall is the best time to ensure that your chimney is clean and in good condition. Creosote buildup can be dangerous and lead to chimney fires if not properly maintained.
'Personally, I always advise hiring a professional chimney sweep to inspect and clean the chimney. If you do attempt it yourself, check for cracks in the chimney structure and address any necessary repairs, ensuring the chimney cap is in place to prevent debris or animals from entering.'
Toner recommends this Rutland Fiberglass Chimney Brush Rod Kit, available from Amazon, adding, 'This easy-to-use kit allows homeowners to safely clean their chimneys, reducing creosote buildup and improving fireplace efficiency.'
Soot buildup and blockages, such as nests, can become fire hazards. Regular chimney maintenance ensures proper airflow and safe operation. Check out our guide on how often to clean your chimney.
6. Service the heating system
Fall is the perfect time to have your furnace or heating system serviced by a professional. Experts always ensure their heating systems are running efficiently, check filters, and make necessary repairs before the first frost hits.
Christensen says, 'Before the cold winter months set in, ensuring your heating system is functioning optimally is crucial for comfort and safety.
'Personally, I begin by changing furnace or HVAC filters to improve air quality and system efficiency. I'll also schedule a licensed technician to inspect and tune up my heating system.
'Other useful checks include verifying that your thermostat is accurate, plus ensuring all heating vents are unobstructed and clean.'
Christensen recommends the Google Nest Learning Thermostat, available from Amazon, adding, 'This clever thermostat allows for customized heating schedules and remote control via smartphone, enhancing energy savings and convenience.'
7. Refresh the closets
Preparing for colder months means transitioning your wardrobe.
Steve Evans, owner of Memphis Maids, says, 'Fall is a great time to make sure you have a clean, decluttered closet. Start by bringing out your more comfy jackets and coats and storing away those summer clothes you won't need for a while.
'If possible, take the time to empty your closets, vacuum walls, drawers, and doors, and find a humidity absorber to help keep everything fresh.'
Evans recommends this DampRid Reusable Moisture Absorber from Amazon, which features a 360-degree ventilation system.
Refreshing your closets in this way also helps keep moths or other pests at bay. And with winter approaching, check out these ways to organize your home for wellness in December.
So there you have it – seven fall home maintenance tips experts never skip in their own properties. Fall home maintenance may seem like a chore, but staying on top of these tasks can save you time, money, and stress down the line – ensuring your property is ready for whatever winter brings.
Next, check out these six expert-approved design features to embrace for a low-maintenance home.
