Embrace Fall with Essential Exterior Home Maintenance
As the temperatures shift from summer highs of 82°F to crisp overnight lows of 36°F, there’s no denying it—fall is here! With the changing season, now is the perfect time to prepare your home for the cooler months ahead. At Mr. Clean Fix, we know that tackling exterior maintenance projects before winter hits can save you headaches (and dollars) down the road. Let’s explore some key fall projects to help get your home ready for the chill.
1. Roof Cleaning & Leak Inspection
Leaves are already starting to fall, and they can quickly clog your gutters, causing water to back up and damage your roof. Cleaning out those gutters and checking for leaks can prevent problems before they start. If you spot any trouble spots, like loose shingles or cracked flashing, now’s the time to address them before winter storms hit. Consider adding a roof inspection to your to-do list this fall, so you can rest easy when the snow arrives.
2. Deck Prep
Decks often take a beating from summer sun and traffic, and now they’re about to face cold, wet conditions. A thorough cleaning, followed by sealing or staining, will protect the wood from moisture and freezing temperatures. This simple maintenance can extend your deck’s life and keep it looking great. Don't forget to inspect railings and steps to ensure everything is solid before winter brings slippery conditions.
3. Yard Maintenance
It’s tempting to let your yard go as fall arrives, but some key tasks can make a big difference. Raking leaves is a start, but also look at trimming back overgrown shrubs and trees, especially those near your home or roof. This will reduce the risk of damage from falling branches during winter storms. Plus, a clean yard helps prevent pests from taking up residence as the weather cools.
4. Exterior Checkup
Fall is also the ideal time to inspect the exterior of your home. Check for cracks in the foundation, gaps in siding, or any other vulnerabilities where cold air, moisture, or even critters could get in. Caulking around windows and doors can improve insulation and prevent drafts, saving you on energy costs.
5. Winterization Prep
Get ahead of the game by preparing your outdoor plumbing. Be sure to drain and store garden hoses, and shut off outdoor water supplies to prevent frozen pipes. While you’re at it, now is a great time to check that your snow removal gear is ready for action. Trust us—you don’t want to wait until the first snow falls to find out your snowblower won’t start!
Looking Ahead: Prepping the Interior
While this post is all about getting the outside of your home ready for fall, stay tuned for our next blog, where we’ll dive into interior prepping! From checking insulation to cozying up your living spaces, we’ll cover everything you need to make sure your home is as comfortable as possible as the temperatures drop.