Fall Back, Fix Up: 10 Essential Home Maintenance Tips
When Daylight Saving Time winds down each fall, most of us think only about changing the clocks. But it is also the perfect time to tackle some seasonal home maintenance tasks. Just like spring cleaning freshens up your living space, a fall checklist can protect your home, keep your family safe, and save you money through the cooler months.
As we like to say, a well-maintained home is a safer, more comfortable home. Here are some smart fall-season tips to add to your to-do list as the days get shorter.
1. Check Crawl Space Vents and Foundation
As temperatures drop, your crawl space plays a big role in keeping your home dry and energy efficient. Walk around your foundation and inspect crawl space vents for cracks, missing screens, or damage that could invite pests or moisture inside. Make sure all support beams and piers in the crawl space are stable and free of rot or pests. Check for mold, mildew or musty odors and any signs of standing water.
If your crawl space has been encapsulated, check that the dehumidifier is functioning properly before the colder months. If you don’t have a dehumidifier, this is a good time to call Wolfe and have one installed ahead of winter. Also, do a visual inspection of both interior and exterior foundation walls. Keep a lookout for any new cracks or changes in existing ones.
2. Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Leaves and debris are already starting to fall in some areas. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and pool around your foundation, leading to costly structural issues. Clean out gutters and make sure downspouts direct water at least 5–10 feet away from the house. Consider adding extensions or splash blocks if necessary.
3. Inspect Windows and Doors for Drafts
Small gaps around windows and doors can make your heating system work overtime. On a breezy day, run your hand around frames to feel for drafts. Caulking, weatherstripping, or installing storm windows can lower energy bills and improve efficiency. Be sure to seal any gaps where air can infiltrate around crawl space vents or access doors. Consider insulating the crawl space walls or ceiling, depending on how your home is built.
4. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Your family’s safety should always come first. Daylight Saving Time is the ideal built-in reminder to test all your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace batteries if needed, vacuum away dust, and press the test button to make sure they’re working. If your alarms are more than 10 years old, it may be time for a full replacement.
5. Service Your HVAC System
Before you switch from air conditioning to heating, have your HVAC system professionally serviced. Change the air filters, clean vents, and schedule a tune-up. A well-maintained system not only keeps your home comfortable but also prevents unexpected breakdowns during cold snaps.
6. Adjust Outdoor Lighting
As evenings get darker earlier, make sure your outdoor lighting is in good working order. Check motion sensors, replace burned-out bulbs, and consider upgrading to energy-efficient LEDs. Adequate lighting improves both safety and security around your home.
7. Inspect Your Roof and Chimney
Fall is an excellent time to take a close look at your roof. Check for missing shingles, damaged flashing, or moss growth. If you use a fireplace, have your chimney cleaned and inspected before the first fire of the season. This helps prevent dangerous creosote buildup.
8. Refresh Your Home’s Exterior
With milder weather, fall is a great time for small outdoor projects. Touch up exterior paint, pressure wash siding, or repair damaged trim before winter moisture sets in. These simple steps extend the life of your home’s exterior surfaces.
9. Check Sump Pumps and Drainage
Heavy rains can test your home’s drainage system. Test your sump pump by pouring a bucket of water into the pit to make sure it activates. Also, check your yard’s grading to ensure water flows away from your foundation.
10. Declutter and Organize Seasonal Storage
Switching out summer gear for fall items? Use this time to declutter garages, sheds, or attics. Store summer furniture properly, and make fall essentials like rakes, leaf blowers, and snow shovels easy to access. This is also a good time to watch out for pest invasions. Cooler weather often drives unwanted critters indoors, so look for signs of rodents, insects, or other pests. Make sure all access points are properly sealed and schedule pest control if needed.
Make the Most of the Season
Daylight Saving Time isn’t just about moving the clock back. It is about moving forward with good home care. By using this seasonal marker as your maintenance reminder, you will stay ahead of costly repairs and enjoy peace of mind heading into winter.
We are here to help you protect your biggest investment—your home. If you notice any issues with your foundation, crawl space, or drainage during your fall inspection, give us a call. Our team of experts is ready to keep your home strong, safe, and ready for the season ahead.