Q: As the temperatures start to drop, I’m reminded that there are things I should be doing to get my home ready for fall and the colder temperatures. Do you have any tips?
A: Yes! Even though we’re still soaking up the last rays of summer, September has arrived, and fall is fast approaching. Now is the perfect time to prepare your home for the changing season. This fall maintenance checklist for New England homeowners will help you transition your home into autumn smoothly, safely, and efficiently.
🍂 Yard and Lawn Care
-
Rake up fallen leaves early. Don’t wait until they pile up—keeping your lawn clear makes it easier to manage as fall progresses.
-
Mulch your leaves. Instead of removing them, mulch leaves using your lawnmower. This helps retain soil nutrients and is a great eco-friendly lawn care tip.
-
Prepare your lawn equipment for storage. Clean and stow your mower properly to keep it in good condition during the off-season.
-
Drain the mower’s gasoline tank. This prevents sediment buildup and keeps your mower running smoothly next spring.
🏠 Roof, Gutter, and HVAC Maintenance
-
Inspect your gutters. Remove any clogs or debris to prevent water damage and foundation problems once the rain and snow arrive.
-
Schedule a furnace inspection. Hire a professional HVAC technician to service your furnace before colder weather hits.
-
Examine your roof. Check for missing, curled, or loose shingles that may need repair before snow or ice causes damage.
🪟 Window, Door, and Draft Protection
-
Check for drafts. Use an incense stick near window and door edges. If the smoke moves, seal the draft using weatherstripping or caulk.
-
Upgrade to a programmable thermostat. This helps regulate indoor temperatures and saves you money on energy bills.
-
Inspect windows and doors for efficiency. Consider upgrading to Energy Star-certified products that offer better insulation for the winter.
🔥 Fire Safety and Chimney Prep
-
Replace smoke detector batteries. Fire hazards increase in fall and winter, so stay proactive with smoke detector maintenance.
-
Inspect your chimney. If you see 1/8 inch or more of soot, schedule a chimney sweep for safe fireplace use.
-
Stock up on firewood. Order or chop firewood now so it’s dry and ready to use when temperatures dip.
-
Store firewood safely. Keep dry firewood at least 15 feet away from your home to reduce the risk of termite infestation.
🛡️ Exterior Safety and Critter Control
-
Seal small gaps and holes. Use heavy-duty hardware cloth to block tiny openings where rodents or insects could enter.
-
Check sidewalks and driveways for tripping hazards. Icy winters in New England make these areas especially dangerous. Repair cracks and uneven surfaces now.
-
Inspect your home’s exterior. Look for signs of foundation cracks or damaged siding. Address issues before snow and ice worsen them.
💡 Energy Efficiency Upgrades
-
Consider energy-efficient exterior products. Swapping old windows, doors, or siding for Energy Star-rated alternatives can significantly cut your winter heating costs.
-
Schedule a free home exterior assessment. A professional can identify opportunities to enhance energy savings and extend the life of your home’s exterior.
Final Thoughts: Stay Ahead with Smart Fall Prep
With this fall maintenance checklist for New England homeowners, you’ll protect your home from seasonal damage, reduce your energy costs, and ensure your living space remains warm and comfortable through the colder months.
Don’t wait for winter to make your move—get started today!
📩 Contact Stephanie Vanderbilt at svanderbilt@mycoastalwindows.com for more expert advice on home maintenance and energy efficiency.
📞 Call Coastal Windows & Exteriors at 978-304-0495 to schedule your FREE assessment of roofing, siding, windows, and entry doors.
A well-prepared home is a warmer, safer, and more energy-efficient home—especially in New England.