The weather has officially cooled and Fall is here in Windsor-Essex. As Thanksgiving and Halloween approach, the leaves will start to change colours and fall. The temperatures will continue to drop and usher in cool and sometimes rainy weather. With that in mind, we've put together the best fall maintenance tips to make sure your home is ready for fall.
1. Clean the Gutters and Downspouts
One of the most important fall maintenance tasks is cleaning out your gutters and downspouts. Fallen leaves and debris can quickly clog your gutters, preventing proper drainage and leading to water damage, roof leaks, and even foundation issues. Make sure you clear out all leaves, twigs, and debris from the gutters and check for any signs of damage, such as sagging or cracks, and repair or replace gutters as needed. Do not forget your downspouts, ensure they point away from the foundation of your home and if you see pooling, add gutter extensions to direct it further away. . You should climb a ladder and roof if you can do so safely, if you cannot, hire professionals or ask for assistance.
2. Inspect and Seal Windows and Doors
Windows and doors that are drafty can significantly increase your energy bills by allowing cold air to enter your home and warm air to escape. Fall is an ideal time to do an inspection of your windows and doors to look for gaps, cracks, and other signs of wear. You can do this by feeling around windows and doors for cold air on windy days. If you see worn weatherstripping replace it. Use caulking to seal gaps or cracks.
3. Service Your Heating System
Before winter sets in, it’s essential to ensure that your heating system is in good working condition. Take the opportunity in the fall to schedule an HVAC inspection and service. You technician will be able to clean and inspect the furnace, help replace the air filters, check for any issues with the thermostat or other components, and finally ensure that your heating system is running efficiently and safely for the cold weather coming.
4. Check the Roof for Damage
If you are up on your roof doing the gutters, this is a great opportunity to inspect it for damage before the winter weather arrives. Be on the lookout for missing, loose, or damaged shingles, signs of water damage, such as mold or algae growth, and cracked or deteriorating flashing around chimneys, vents, or skylights. If you see something off, call a roofer in and get it inspected and repaired before the snow comes and cause even more damage.
5. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
As you prepare your furnacce and get closer to turning it on, be sure to check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning properly. Test all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors throughout your home and replace batteries if needed. Ensure that your detectors are placed in key areas, such as outside bedrooms, in the kitchen, and near any gas appliances or fireplaces. Finally, you should replace any outdated units, Windsor Fire recommends changing units every 10 years.
6. Inspect Your Home’s Foundation
The foundation is one of the most important parts of your home, and fall is a good time to inspect it for any cracks or signs of settling. Small cracks can worsen over the winter as water seeps in, freezes, and expands. Check for things like cracks in the foundation or exterior walls, look for gaps between the foundation and siding, and when it rains be sure to see if and where water is pooling near the foundation. Work to mitigate the pooling as much as possible before winter, snow, and melt begins.
By taking care of these essential fall maintenance tasks, you’ll ensure that your home is well-prepared for the colder months ahead. Not only will you prevent costly repairs, but you’ll also create a safer, more energy-efficient environment for you and your family. Whether it’s cleaning your gutters, sealing windows, or scheduling an HVAC service, a little preparation now can save you a lot of hassle later. Here at Jump Realty our agents will give you honest advice on what course of action is best for you in their professional opinion and will always put taking care of your best interests first! With offices in Windsor, Kingsville, LaSalle, Harrow, and Chatham, no matter where you are, a Jump agent is ready to help. Please contact us for any housing needs and let us give you a better real estate experience!
