FALL MAINTENANCE TIPS​

Fall is a great time to prepare your home and property for the colder months ahead. Here are some fall maintenance tips to help you get started:

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Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Remove leaves, twigs, and debris from your gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage. Clogged gutters can lead to water damage and ice dams in the winter.

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Inspect and Clean Chimney: If you have a fireplace or wood-burning stove, have your chimney cleaned and inspected by a professional to ensure it's safe to use during the winter.

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Seal Windows and Doors: Check for drafts around windows and doors and seal any gaps with weatherstripping or caulk. This will help keep your home warm and reduce heating costs.

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Check Heating System: Schedule a maintenance check for your heating system, whether it's a furnace, heat pump, or boiler. Replace filters and ensure it's running efficiently.

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Service Your Lawn Equipment: Drain fuel from lawnmowers, weed trimmers, and other gas-powered equipment. Clean and store them properly to prevent damage during the winter.

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Clean and Store Outdoor Furniture: Clean and store your outdoor furniture to protect it from the elements. If space is limited, consider using furniture covers.

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Trim Trees and Bushes: Prune dead branches and trim overgrown bushes. This will not only improve the appearance of your yard but also prevent potential damage from heavy snow and ice.

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Inspect Roof and Siding: Look for any damaged or missing shingles, and inspect your siding for cracks or gaps. Repairing these issues now can prevent water damage later.

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Clean and Store Garden Tools: Clean and sharpen your gardening tools, and store them properly. Drain hoses and store them indoors to prevent freezing and cracking.

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Prepare Your Lawn: Fertilize and aerate your lawn in the fall to promote healthy grass growth in the spring. It's also a good time to reseed any bare patches.

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Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and test them to ensure they're working correctly.

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Winterize Your Outdoor Faucets: Disconnect garden hoses, drain outdoor faucets, and insulate them to prevent freezing and bursting.

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Clean and Inspect Dryer Vents: Remove lint buildup from your dryer vent to prevent fire hazards. A clean vent also helps your dryer work more efficiently.

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Check Insulation: Ensure your home is properly insulated, especially in the attic and crawl spaces. Adequate insulation can save on heating costs.

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Stock Up on Winter Supplies: Purchase winter supplies such as rock salt, snow shovels, and ice melt so you're prepared for snow and ice removal.

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Prepare Emergency Kit: Assemble an emergency kit with essentials like flashlights, batteries, canned food, bottled water, and blankets in case of power outages or severe weather.

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Taking the time to perform these fall maintenance tasks can help you avoid costly repairs and keep your home in good condition throughout the winter months.