home maintenance

As summer fades gently into fall, a brilliant display of red, orange, gold and brown hues signals that falling leaves and crisp weather are upon us. From cozying up in a knit sweater and sipping on a pumpkin spice latte to visiting a pumpkin patch and cheering on a football game, fall in Colorado is unlike any other. Although fall can be one of the busiest seasons, it is the perfect time to focus on fall home maintenance with a proactive task list to prep our homes for the chilly months ahead.

By focusing on preventative maintenance, we ensure that our homes are ready to withstand the cold while maintaining comfort and charm. Upkeeping exteriors, maintaining outdoor spaces and managing interiors will allow us to tackle our home tasks before the first frosty morning. Below, we’ve gathered the top fall home maintenance tips to prepare your home for a cozy and worry-free season.

// upkeep exteriors //

While beautiful fall foliage draws our eyes upward, we turn our attention toward inspecting the exteriors of our homes for possible damage. A visual roof inspection, using binoculars if necessary, can help prevent small issues from turning into disasters once the ice and snow set in. Check from top to bottom, scanning the roof for leaking, cracking or missing and damaged shingles. Or consider hiring a qualified roofer to assess whether an older roof will need to be replaced or if professional repairs are required.

Clogged gutters and downspouts are inconvenient and can lead to expensive repairs and damaged exterior surfaces. Fallen leaves and debris prevent proper drainage, causing water damage and structural issues if left unattended. Clean out gutters and downspouts by flushing them with water, inspecting joints and tightening brackets. Make sure your downspouts extend at least five feet away from your home to prevent foundation problems and replace any worn or damaged gutters and downspouts as needed.

To keep the warm air in and cold air out, weatherstripping is an efficient way to reduce drafts and maintain heating and cooling costs. Check periodically that your weatherstripping is properly sealed to prevent air leaks and pests from entering. Inspect your home for any gaps and cracks around windows, doors and other openings to check for missing or damaged caulk. Seal any gaps with caulk, and if drafts persist, consider a window or door replacement by a professional.

// maintain outdoor spaces //

Preparing your outdoor space for fall and winter can make for an easier transition once the weather warms up again. Take time to rake leaves, remove dead plants and trim trees and shrubs to improve the overall appearance of your yard. Consider adding a layer of mulch to protect plants and insulate the soil. To prevent frozen pipes and potential water and winter damage, disconnect garden hoses, drain outdoor faucets and shut off the water supply to irrigation systems.

Cooling temperatures do not signify the end of enjoying your outdoor space — the addition of a cozy firepit will warm your backyard well into the winter months. Check if backyard entertaining spaces including porches and patios are in need of replacement and that stairs and handrails are supportive and sturdy. Repair any cracking, uneven sections or damage noticed along walkways, paths or the driveway to prevent hazards.

Clean out your garage and shed to make room to store yard equipment and garden tools. Prepare and organize snow-removing gear — including shovels and snow blowers — so that it is easy to reach once the first snowflake falls. Be sure to bring in any outdoor furniture or barbecues to cover and store properly, and examine your pool cover to check for any damage before temperatures drop.

// manage interiors //

Keeping your home’s interior warm and cozy is essential as temperatures shift from sweltering to chilly. A professional HVAC technician can inspect, clean and tune up your furnace, ensuring your heating system operates efficiently throughout the colder months. Regular maintenance and service can also extend the life of your heating system and prevent future problems.

Fall is the perfect time to review your home’s safety features including changing the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, replacing old fire extinguishers and maintaining your home’s security system. Additionally, fall is an ideal time to open windows for ventilation while professionally cleaning carpeting or polishing flooring.

Nothing is better than a cozy evening spent curled up around the glowing warmth of a fire. Examine your wood-burning fireplace to check for corrosion, holes, cracks or flammable creosote buildup. Inspect your chimney to be sure it is clear of damage or blockages before igniting a fire. Consider ordering a professional fireplace inspection or hiring a chimney sweep to ensure your fireplace is ready to enjoy all fall and winter.

Home maintenance can be challenging; fall into professional home service by contacting your local home maintenance company.