By taking a few proactive steps before winter hits, you’ll be able to save on energy costs and avoid expensive repairs. Get your home winter-ready with these essential fall maintenance tips.

As the air turns crisp and you start to head indoors, use it as a reminder to check off some important home maintenance projects. Taking care of these tasks now can help protect your home from the wear and tear of winter and keep things running smoothly when temperatures drop. Here’s an overview of some key projects to tackle before you go into hibernation mode.

Inspect the Roof and Gutters

Your roof is your first line of defence against winter weather, so give it a careful check for any loose or damaged shingles, cracked flashing, or signs of wear. Even small problems can turn into major leaks once snow and ice accumulate. While you’re at it, clean out your gutters and downspouts. Leaves, twigs, and debris can block water flow, leading to overflow and potential foundation damage when the water freezes and expands.

Seal Gaps and Cracks

Cold air, moisture, and pests all look for ways to sneak inside as temperatures drop. Walk around your home’s exterior and inspect areas around windows, doors, and utility lines. Use caulk, weatherstripping, or foam insulation to close any gaps. This small step helps keep your home warmer, lowers heating bills, and keeps rodents and insects from sneaking into your home.

Service Your Heating System

Your furnace or boiler will soon be working overtime, so change or clean the air filters to improve efficiency and air quality inside your home. It’s also a good idea to schedule a professional inspection to make sure it’s in good shape. Additionally, if you have a wood-burning fireplace or wood stove and you plan to use it, it’s crucial to arrange for a chimney cleaning and inspection to reduce the risk of a chimney fire.

Protect Your Plumbing

Frozen pipes are one of the costliest and most inconvenient winter headaches. Save yourself the trouble by shutting off and draining outdoor faucets and hoses before the first freeze. Inside, it’s important to insulate any exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, or garages to keep them from cracking and breaking.

Improve Window Efficiency

Windows can be a major source of heat loss in the winter, so give them attention before the cold really sets in. In addition to inspecting and sealing any areas of air infiltration, you can add a clear insulating film to help retain heat. Another strategy is to install heavy or thermal curtains as an extra layer of protection against the chill.

Prep the Yard and Outdoor Spaces

Fall yard work isn’t just about raking leaves, though that’s an important step. Be sure to also trim back any overhanging branches that could snap under snow or ice and damage your roof or power lines. Clear away debris near your foundation as well, and clean and seal decks or patios to protect them from moisture damage.

Do Essential Safety Checks

Before winter officially arrives and your heating system is running at full capacity, check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, replacing batteries if needed. Ensure your fire extinguisher is accessible and in good working order as well.

Don’t let the fall season slip by without making sure your home is ready for winter. A few hours of work now mean more time to relax and enjoy the season ahead.