The kids are headed back to school and the days are getting shorter so it’s probably time to roll up your sleeves and prepare your home for fall with some basic end-of-summer home maintenance. After all, how are you going to enjoy all those pumpkin spice lattes if you haven’t prepared your home for the colder, damper weather?

Set aside a week to focus and prepare your home for fall and beyond with this basic home maintenance checklist.

• Inspect the Exterior: Check for any cracks or gaps in the foundation, walls, and exterior surfaces. Seal and caulk as needed to prevent drafts and water infiltration. Examine the roof for missing or damaged shingles. Replace and repair as necessary to prevent leaks during rainy seasons.
• Gutters and Downspouts: Clogged gutters can lead to water damage and leaks, especially during fall and winter. Remove leaves, debris, and dirt from gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage and prevent water damage.
• Landscaping: Trim back overgrown branches and shrubs that could potentially damage your home during storms or heavy winds. If you have a lawn, consider aerating, fertilizing, and overseeding in preparation for healthier growth next spring.
• Outdoor Furniture & Appliances: Maybe you plan to have some more outdoor patio time in the fall, but if you don’t have plans along those lines, clean and store outdoor furniture, cushions and umbrellas. Clean and store your grills, and put away any gardening tools and outdoor toys to protect them from harsh weather conditions. Similarly, drain and store any garden hoses you don’t need out.
• Windows and Doors: Inspect the weatherstripping around windows and doors inside and outside, and seal them to prevent drafts and pests from entering. Replace any worn-out seals to prevent drafts and heat loss during colder months.
• HVAC System: Clean or replace air filters in your heating and cooling systems. Consider scheduling a professional HVAC inspection and maintenance to ensure optimal performance during the colder months.
• Chimney and Fireplace: If you have a fireplace, schedule a chimney sweep and inspection to ensure safe and efficient operation during the colder months. If you use firewood, make sure it's stored away from your home to prevent pests from entering.
• Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Check and replace batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. Test their functionality to ensure safety. It’s also a good time to review your emergency supply kit and check the expiration date on your fire extinguisher and have them serviced and replaced if necessary.

Enjoy the spooky fall season without getting “spooked” by unexpected home repairs. Set aside some time now for some basic fall home maintenance to ensure your home is well-prepared and minimize potential issues that could arise during the cooler months.