The temperatures are cooling down, the leaves are changing, and the smell of wood smoke is wafting through the crisp air. Fall is nearly upon us here in the Shenandoah Valley, which means it’s time to perform some fall home maintenance tasks around our homes. It is important to tackle these projects in order to care for your home and give it a long life. Plus, checking off these tasks now will make your spring home maintenance list a whole lot easier (not that we have firsthand experience…).
Here’s Your Fall Home Maintenance Guide: What To Do in October, November, and December to Care For Your Home
every month
- Vacuum + dust HVAC
- Put ice (to sharpen), baking soda and citrus fruit rinds (to freshen) through garbage disposal
october
- Plant new trees and lay sod
- Trim branches and shrubs
- Winterize perennials, clean annuals out
- Clean out roof gutters and check for damage
- Check for leaks on supply lines to sinks and toilets
- Drain and remove sediment from hot water heater
- Change air filters
november
- Check clothes dryer vents and hoses for lint
- Check and clean range hood fan
- Seal tile grout
- Clean dishwasher drain bin
- Turn/rotate mattresses
december
- Check roof and exterior of house
- Check and clean range hood fan
- Check for leaks on supply lines to sinks and toilets
The Benefits are Long Term
We get it. Home maintenance is hardly anyone’s favorite thing to do, but performing the tasks above can truly extend the life of your home, adding value long term. If needed, simply take it literally one task at a time. Change the air filter, then take a break with a cup of coffee. In a couple days, you can clean out your annuals, then drink another cup of coffee. See… it’s not so bad.
BONUS: checking for leaks every other month could help you save money on your water bill, while checking vents and fans can save thousands on electricity.