As the days get shorter and nights are cooler, you know fall is coming. So my question to you is this.  Is your home ready for fall? Here are a few things fall home maintenance tips to help you get ready.

• Gutters: Be sure they’re clear of leaves and debris to prevent ice expansion to create gaps and leaks. When using ladders, be sure safety comes first!
• Windows and Doors: Have you seen curtains move on a windy day? This may be from air gaps around windows and doors. Ensure they are properly sealed and insulated to prevent warm air escaping and colder air entering. This Old House has some help here.
• Heating system: Replace your filter at least every other month to ensure your home is recycling air correctly. Have your heating system inspected by a qualified technician to ensure it’s operating efficiently
• Plumbing: Are your outside faucets leaking? This may cause freeze/thaw in foundations or basement walls. Do you have the proper faucet installed? Older homes may need to replace outdated faucets to newer freeze preventative ones. Here are a few tips.
• Exterior Hose Bibs:  Are your exterior hose bibs frost-proof; and have you removed your hoses from the faucets?

Getting ready

Of course, fall is always a great time to have a home maintenance inspection or a pre-sale inspection if you’re planning to sell your home in the near future. For a small fee we’ll come walk through your home with you and point out any items that are safety issues, as well as fix-it items that would be beneficial for you to repair prior to listing. You can always give our office a call at 515/865-0346 or email us at [email protected].

Following a few simple to-do checklist will save you time and money now versus what may cause a bigger issue later.