Fall Home Maintenance Checklist

Here on the east coast, Hurricane Irene was THE event of the summer, and I didn't realize it at the time, but I think the storm swallowed up summer altogether! Because as soon as the weather passed and the waters receded, temperatures dropped significantly and fall already began to dig in its heels. 

Summer is my favorite season, so I was a bit depressed--but it is September after all and the first day of fall is tomorrow--already?! Yup. So I guess this is just as good a time as ever to get prepped for fall maintenance around the house. Below, please enjoy the autumn portion of the U.S. Inspect Seasonal Maintenance Series.

A home care checklist for the fall season:

Exterior: Check foundation walls, steps, retaining walls, walks, patios, driveways and garage floors for cracks, heaving and crumbling.

Heating & Cooling: Service oil burning equipment and heat pump annually. Service gas burning equipment every other year.

Interiors: Check underside of roof for water stains, leaks, dampness and condensation.

Plumbing: Have septic tank professionally drained and cleaned every two years.

Doors & Windows: Check all weather stripping.

Exterior: Clean gutters, leaders, strainers, window wells and drains. Be sure downspouts direct water away from the foundation.

Roof: Check vents, louvers and chimneys for birds nest, squirrels or insects.

Doors & Windows: Check glazing putty on windows and check caulking for decay around doors, windows, corner boards and joints.

Plumbing: Drain exterior water lines, hose bibs, sprinklers and pool equipment. Check insulation wrapping on all water lines and drains exposed to weather.

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The Complete Seasonal Home Maintenance Series
Spring Home Maintenance Checklist
Summer Home Maintenance Checklist
Fall Home Maintenance Checklist
Winter Home Maintenance Checklist