Top 5 Fall Home Maintenance Tips for Connecticut Homeowners
Top 5 Fall Home Maintenance Tips for Connecticut Homeowners
As the crisp New England air sets in and the leaves begin to fall, it’s the perfect time for homeowners to prepare their houses for the colder months ahead. Taking care of fall maintenance now can help prevent costly repairs, improve energy efficiency, and keep your home safe and comfortable all winter long. Here are the top five fall home maintenance tips to focus on in Connecticut:
- Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts
Falling leaves may be beautiful, but they can quickly clog your gutters. Blocked gutters cause water to back up and lead to leaks, building damage, and even basement water entry.
- Clear leaves, twigs, and debris.
- Check downspouts to ensure water is draining away from your foundation.
- Confirm the performance of gutter guards or screens if in place
- Reset sagging gutters and seal leaking joints.
- Service Your Heating System
Connecticut winters can be brutal, so make sure your heating system is ready to handle the workload. Staying ahead of heating issues will not only keep your home warm but also save on energy costs.
- Schedule a professional inspection and tune-up for your furnace or boiler.
- Replace air filters.
- Test your thermostat before the cold really sets in.
- Have your gas fireplace cleaned and serviced.
- Inspect Your Roof and Chimney
Your roof and chimney take a beating during New England winters.
- Look for missing or damaged shingles and have them repaired.
- Check flashing around vents and chimneys to prevent leaks.
- If you have a wood-burning fireplace, schedule a chimney cleaning to reduce fire hazards.
- Repair any masonry cracks or damage that will worsen with freezing.
- Seal Gaps and Cracks
Drafts around windows, doors, and siding cause air leakage and are potential rodent entry points.
- Check around pipes, vents, and utility openings.
- Use weatherstripping and caulk to seal air gaps.
- Use wire mesh or chew-resistant foam to fill rodent voids
- Don’t forget the basement and attic, where small openings can make a big difference.
- Winterize Your Outdoor Spaces
Protect your yard and exterior features before the first hard freeze.
- Winterize outdoor faucets by turning off valves and draining and/or removing hoses from “frost-free” type.
- Store hoses and bring in outdoor furniture to avoid deterioration.
- Clean and cover your grill and outdoor fireplaces.
- Cut back trees and growth encroaching on your home.
A little preparation this fall can go a long way in protecting your home from the challenges of winter. Try these DIY tasks or call Tiger; fall is the perfect time for a Home Maintenance Inspection. By checking these tasks off your list, you’ll avoid headaches and enjoy a cozy and comfortable Connecticut fall season.
