Fall Home Maintenance Checklist
Fall is your last opportunity to prepare your home before winter arrives. The tasks in this checklist focus on winterizing vulnerable systems, servicing your heating before it is needed, and sealing the envelope against cold and moisture. Miss these steps and you risk frozen pipes, a failed furnace on the coldest night of the year, or ice dams that can tear gutters off and flood your attic. Work through all 20 tasks before the first hard freeze.
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Get Started FreeFrequently Asked Questions
When should I start fall home maintenance?
Start in September for tasks that require warm weather (caulking, painting) and complete all winterizing tasks before the first hard freeze in your area. In most of the US, aim to finish by November 1. Furnace service should be scheduled by October 1 to avoid backlogs.
How do I prepare my house for winter?
The four most critical steps are: (1) service your furnace, (2) shut off and drain outdoor hose bibs, (3) clean gutters after leaf fall, and (4) seal exterior gaps to prevent pest entry and heat loss. These four tasks prevent the most expensive and common winter emergencies.
How often should I clean my gutters?
Twice a year: once in late spring after trees finish flowering and dropping seeds, and once in late fall after the last leaves drop. If you have pine trees that shed needles year-round, consider quarterly cleaning or installing gutter guards.
What temperature should I winterize my pipes at?
Shut off outdoor hose bibs and insulate exposed pipes before temperatures consistently drop below 32°F. Pipes in unheated spaces (crawl spaces, attached garages, attics) are at risk when outside temperatures reach 20°F or below.