Top 10 Must-Do Maintenance List For Your Home This Fall

Download Our Fall Home Maintenance Checklist

The changing weather signals the start of fall, and as you break out your sweaters, it’s time to get your house ready for the changing seasons as well. It’s crucial — for your safety and your wallet — to take a few small steps to prepare your home for the upcoming colder months.

Normandy Homes builds with quality materials and high standards throughout the construction process, but seasonal maintenance is essential for your home to remain safe, comfortable and energy-efficient year-round. Read more about the top 10 areas on your fall home maintenance list. 

Download our fall maintenance checklist.

1. Inspect and clean gutters and downspouts.

Over the summer, leaves, twigs and debris can accumulate in your gutters, causing clogs and potentially leading to roof leaks and water damage. Clear out any debris and ensure that your gutters are securely attached to your home. Consider installing gutter guards to prevent future clogs and make gutter maintenance easier. Check again at the end of autumn after the trees are bare for another potential cleanout.

2. Check the roof.

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements, so it’s essential to make sure it’s in good condition. Inspect your roof for missing or damaged shingles and any signs of leaks. If you notice any issues, it’s best to address them promptly to prevent more significant problems down the road.

3. Change the direction of your ceiling fans.

This easy adjustment — changing the rotation of your ceiling fans with changing weather — helps increase energy efficiency and puts less strain on your heating and cooling systems. In the colder months, run your ceiling fans clockwise to create an updraft to circulate warm air (which rises). On most fans, there’s an easy directional switch on the motor. Running a ceiling fan properly in the winter can help you save up to 10% on your heating bill. 

4. Seal gaps and cracks.

Energy efficiency starts with making sure you can maintain the desired temperature inside your home, while gaps and cracks around windows, doors and foundation walls could make your air conditioner or heat work overtime. Seal any openings with caulk or weatherstripping to improve energy efficiency and keep your heating bills in check. Proper insulation and sealing can also prevent pests from finding their way inside.

5. Service your heating system.

Before the winter chill sets in, it’s crucial to have your heating system serviced. Schedule a professional HVAC technician to inspect your furnace or heat pump, clean or replace filters and ensure everything is in good working order. Regular maintenance can help your heating system run efficiently and extend its lifespan.

6. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

Safety should always be a top priority in your home. Fall is an excellent time to test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace their batteries if necessary. It’s also a good idea to review your family’s fire escape plan to make sure everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency.

7. Clean and store outdoor furniture.

If you have outdoor furniture, it’s time to give it a good cleaning for your fall backyard gatherings. Clean off any dirt and debris. In rainy or freezing weather, store your furniture in a dry, protected area, such as a garage or shed. If you don’t have space for storage, consider investing in high-quality covers to protect your outdoor furniture from the elements.

8. Test and adjust the sprinkler system.

Adjust your sprinkler system and timers for your grass and fall landscaping coverage. If freezing weather is in the forecast, drain outdoor hoses and cover faucets to prevent potential damage. If you have a sprinkler system, it’s a good idea to have it professionally winterized to avoid costly repairs in the spring.

9. Prepare your grass, trees and plants for cooler temperatures. 

Take care of your lawn and garden to ensure they thrive next spring. Rake leaves, remove dead plants and add mulch to protect your garden beds. In North Texas, fall is a great time to plant seed and fertilize your lawn. Trim back any overgrown bushes or trees and consider planting fall bulbs for a burst of color when spring arrives. Make sure you’re ready for potential frost, which typically comes in late November.

10. Inspect your home’s exterior.

Lastly, take a walk around the exterior of your home to inspect for any signs of damage or wear. Look for peeling paint, cracks in the siding or loose bricks or mortar. Address any issues now to prevent more extensive repairs in the future.

Enjoying your home to its fullest includes ensuring it’s ready for every season and in tip-top shape. Plus, addressing maintenance now can save you time and money in the long run. Grab your checklist, roll up your sleeves and get your home ready for fall!

Looking for a new home in the DFW area? Normandy Homes are quality built and backed with a comprehensive new home warranty giving homeowners peace of mind. Find your home in some of the area’s best cities, including Celina, Mansfield, McKinney and Prosper, today!