Your Checklist for Fall Home Maintenance in the Midwest

As the Midwest transitions from the warmth of summer to the crispness of fall (aka, from Andy’s Custard to pumpkin spice lattes), it’s the perfect time to prepare your home for the coming season. Proper fall home maintenance in the Midwest can prevent costly repairs, increase energy efficiency and keep your home in great shape through the harsher months. Here’s an essential checklist to help Midwestern homeowners prepare for the seasonal change.

1. Clean and Inspect Gutters and Downspouts

The Midwest is known for its colorful autumn foliage, but those beautiful leaves can quickly clog your gutters and downspouts. When gutters are blocked, water can overflow and cause damage to your home’s foundation, roof or siding.

• Tip: Remove leaves, twigs and other debris from your gutters. Inspect for any damage or loose sections and ensure water flows freely through downspouts away from the foundation. And if ladders just aren’t your thing, check out our trusted KC Vendor, A Cleaner Image, and let them do all the work.

2. Inspect the Roof

Snow, ice and winter winds will put your roof to the test. Fall is the best time to check for any potential issues, such as loose shingles, cracks or areas that need sealing.

• Tip: Look for signs of wear and tear on your roof and flashing. If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, hire a professional like AAA Midwest Roofing to inspect and repair any damage.

3. Seal Gaps and Cracks

Drafts in your home can lead to higher heating bills during the winter. Take the time to walk around both the interior and exterior of your home, sealing any gaps or cracks that could let cold air in.

• Tip: Use weatherstripping around doors and caulking around windows. Pay special attention to areas where utilities enter your home, as these can be sources of air leakage.

4. Prepare Your Lawn for Winter

As fall progresses, it’s important to prepare your lawn for the cold months. A little effort now will lead to a greener, healthier yard come spring.

• Tip: Aerate your lawn to reduce soil compaction and improve water penetration. Apply a fall fertilizer to strengthen roots, and continue to mow your lawn until the grass stops growing. If yardwork just isn’t in the cards for you, reach out to Jostmeyer Land Solutions and let them do the hard work for you.

5. Check Your Furnace and HVAC System

Before the temperatures drop, make sure your furnace and HVAC system are in working order. This will ensure your home stays warm and comfortable during all the cold months.

• Tip: Replace the air filter and schedule a professional inspection to clean and service the system. If your furnace is outdated, consider upgrading to a more energy-efficient model. If you’re ready for a professional to take over, consider using one of our trusted HVAC vendors, Blue Heating and Cooling or ARK Heating and Cooling.

6. Service Your Fireplace and Chimney

If you have a wood-burning fireplace, it’s essential to have the chimney cleaned before use. Creosote buildup can lead to chimney fires, making this a critical safety measure.

• Tip: Schedule a professional chimney cleaning (let’s admit, none of us are Bert from Mary Poppins) and inspection to check for blockages or damage. Stock up on firewood and check your fireplace damper to ensure it’s working properly. Check out Flues Brothers Chimney Sweep for all your KC chimney needs.

7. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

With fireplaces, furnaces and space heaters running during the colder months, the risk of house fires and carbon monoxide poisoning increases. It’s crucial to ensure your home’s detectors are functioning correctly.

• Tip: Replace batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and test them to make sure they are operational. If they’re more than 10 years old, consider replacing them.

8. Drain Outdoor Faucets and Sprinklers

Freezing temperatures can cause water pipes to burst, leading to costly repairs. Prevent this by draining your outdoor water systems.

• Tip: Turn off the water supply to outdoor faucets, remove hoses and drain any remaining water. If you have an in-ground sprinkler system, be sure to have it professionally drained.

9. Inspect Insulation and Ventilation

Good insulation and ventilation are essential for maintaining a warm, energy-efficient home during the winter. Check your attic, basement and crawl spaces for adequate insulation and ventilation.

• Tip: If you notice cold drafts or high heating bills, consider adding more insulation. Proper attic ventilation will also help prevent ice dams from forming on your roof during the winter.

10. Stock Up on Winter Essentials

Lastly, ensure you have everything you need to handle the Midwest’s unpredictable winter weather. Stocking up on supplies now can save you from scrambling when the first snowstorm hits.

• Tip: Purchase ice melt, snow shovels and service your snow blower if you have one. Keep extra blankets, batteries and flashlights on hand for potential power outages.

Fall home maintenance in the Midwest is all about preparation. By taking the time to address potential issues now, you can protect your home from the harsh winter elements and enjoy a cozy, trouble-free season. So grab your tools, make your checklist, and get your home ready for the colder months ahead. Your future self will thank you!