Spending a weekend on maintenance now could make winter more bearable for both homeowner and house. Here’s a list of fall to-dos:
Safety
Replace smoke detector batteries.
Check or install carbon monoxide detectors.
Repair caulking and weatherstripping, particularly around doors and windows. Don’t forget the garage, basement, attic and siding.
Heating and ventilation
Check and clean or replace furnace, air and dehumidifier filters.
Clean vents and heat registers, radiators and ducts.
Check pilot lights and burners.
Attic
Check for adequate insulation.
Look for signs of pests and water leaks.
Repair damage and block access.
Dust and reverse fans.
Plumbing
Drain and insulate outside faucets.
Protect exposed pipes, and know how to turn off water in case they freeze.
Repair cracks and leaks.
Hot water heater
Drain from the bottom to clear sediment.
Exterior walls
Check for and restore damaged siding, paint and masonry.
Roof
Inspect for leaks, holes, broken or loose shingles, and gaps at joints with gutters, walls, skylights, vents and chimneys.
Gutters and downspouts
Secure and clean. Direct away from the house.
Moisture
Check crawl space, basement, attic, ceilings, walls and floors for signs of water leaks or flooding.
Repair any leaks and improve drainage.
Driveway, deck, patio, yard
Replace raised deck nails, damaged wood and worn finish or paint.
Clear trees of dead branches.
Prune shrubs away from house.
Pick up yard debris.
Winterize the pool.
Fill or repair cracks in driveways and walkways.
Fix broken steps and rails.
Fireplace-wood stove
Remove the ashes and have the chimney cleaned by a professional.
Inspect the chimney for loose or missing mortar, and be sure the damper closes tightly.
Inspect the wood stove.
Compiled from various sources, including Bill Lewis on About.com, Eric Forbes on Homestore.com, Michelle Dawson for Realty Times and bobvila.com.
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