Fall is a great time to review your fall home maintenance checklist and take on some exterior remodeling or home maintenance projects. It is important to get these projects done sooner rather than later so you are able to prepare for the intense winter months that are right around the corner.
Here are five important maintenance projects to tackle during these upcoming fall months.
1. Leaves
Leaves may be an obvious exterior chore to check off your list, but you would be surprised at how many homeowners forget about this tedious, yet very important project.
Leaving leaves on the ground during winter promotes rot and creates a perfect environment for insects to call home during the winter season. As well as insects, leaving leaves on your roof and in your gutters and downspouts can cause water to collect, that will eventually freeze. Frozen water can cause ice damming that leads to structural damage and rot.
One way to take on this project is to rake or finely mulch the leaves in your yard, and to make sure the roof, gutters, and downspouts are clear of leaves and other debris before the cold temperatures start. It is especially important to get this done before the winter season because using a ladder when there is frost and snow creates slippery and dangerous conditions.
2. Garden Hoses & Spigots
When you leave your garden hose connected to a spigot through the colder months, the water inside can freeze, which can damage the spigot – potentially causing your home’s interior pipes to burst.
A simple and quick way to avoid this from happening is to disconnect all hoses. Once you disconnect them, let the water drain out of hose, neatly coil it, and store it in the garage or shed for the winter.
3. Chimney
If you notice that your chimney has cracks or flaking bricks, water can seep in and freeze causing additional damage when it expands. During the colder months, racoons, birds, and other critters will take advantage of your cracked chimney and build nests inside that restrict airflow and pose potential fire hazards.
One great way to make sure your chimney is in proper condition before winter is to schedule a chimney sweep. Not only will a chimney sweep inspect for any issues but he or she can also repair, clean, and fix any problems. To connect with a reputable sweep in your area, search the National Chimney Sweep Guide.
4. Exterior Paint
Peeling paint on the exterior features of your home attracts water, which can lead to trapped moisture long term and eventually result in rot.
If your plan is to paint the exterior of your home this spring, that is fine. However, one way to avoid trapped moisture is to take time this fall to chip away peeling paint wherever you may find it. Once you start to chip away at the peeling paint, and you start to notice wood is being exposed, there is no reason to be alarmed. The air and sun will also help to dry this area and keep it dry.
5. Driveways
Throughout the winter, water can pool and seep into the cracks of your driveway, leading to more cracking and danger when conditions become icy.
A great way to avoid this problem is to fill and patch cracks, and then finish the driveway with a seal coat. By doing this, it will protect your driveway from not just water and ice, but also wear caused by wind and sun. Sealcoating can be a difficult and messy job, so make sure to consult with a driveway contractor in your area before tackling this fall project.
We hope this article was helpful in giving you a better idea of what you should complete this fall in terms of home-maintenance. Enjoy the season!
Thank you to James Hardie for sharing their expertise for this article.
