Checklist for Fall Home Projects
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Fall is in the air. That means that winter is just around the corner, so now is the ideal time to be getting ready for the cold months ahead. To get you started, here are a few things to put on the list.
- Check the gutters: Fall is the time to check your gutter and downspout systems. Clear the gutters of leafs and debris, and check that the opening between the gutter and the downspout is unobstructed. Look for loose joints or other structural problems with the system, and repair them as needed. Use a gutter sealant to seal any connections where leaks may be occurring.
- Drain sprinkler systems: In colder areas, now is the time to be thinking about having your sprinkler and irrigation systems blown out. You can rent a compressor and do this yourself. This is also the time to shut off outdoor faucets and install freeze-proof faucet covers.
- Check the fireplace: It's about time for the cold weather, so get the fireplace ready! Clean the fireplace chimney or wood stove flue using brushes. Clean out the firebox, making sure you place the ashes in a fireproof container with a tight lid for proper disposal. If you have an airtight wood stove or fireplace insert, check the door-seal gasket, and clean the glass on the door.
- Change your furnace filters. Replace your old furnace filter with a new one. Check the furnace for worn belts, lubrication needs, or other servicing that might be required, refer to your owner's manual for specific suggestions, and follow any manufacturer safety instructions for shutting the power and fuel to the furnace before servicing.
- Clean your ducts: Clean your furnace ducts. If it's been a while since that's been done, hire a professional duct cleaning service to handle this project. If you've had it done within the last couple of years and you've been good about changing your filter, then all you should need to worry about is removing the register covers and vacuuming out the boots with shop vacuum.
- Handle those yard chores: Many plants require pruning this time of year, and lawns should be fertilized with a fall/winter fertilizer to feed them through the winter and get them ready for a fast green-up when spring returns.
- Pack up the patio: Check and clean patio furniture and put them away for the winter. Clean and cover removable furniture cushions to protect them from dust and dirt, but be sure the cushions are dry before storing in order to prevent mildew growth.
- Check weather-stripping: Air leaks around doors and windows can be very costly .Check the weather-stripping around doors and windows, and replace any that are worn. Also it is good time to close up a few more air leaks by checking the condition of caulking around exterior door and window frames.
