Getting Your Home Ready for Fall

As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to change, fall is the perfect season to prepare your home for the colder months ahead. A little maintenance now can prevent costly repairs later and keep your home safe, warm, and efficient all winter long. At Nexus Home Inspections, we’ve put together a practical checklist to help homeowners in Central New York get their homes ready for fall.

1. Inspect Your Roof and Gutters

Falling leaves can clog gutters quickly, leading to water damage or ice dams when winter arrives. Clear out gutters and downspouts, and check for loose or damaged shingles. Addressing roof issues now will help protect your home from leaks and heavy snow.

2. Seal Drafts and Insulate

Walk through your home and check for drafts around windows, doors, and baseboards. Adding weatherstripping or caulk can significantly reduce heating costs. Don’t forget your attic—insulation is key to keeping warm air inside where it belongs.

3. Service Your Heating System

Before the temperatures drop, schedule a professional inspection of your furnace or boiler. Change air filters, check thermostats, and make sure your system is ready to handle the workload of the winter months. An efficient system not only keeps you comfortable but saves you money.

4. Prepare Your Fireplace and Chimney

If you use a wood-burning stove or fireplace, have your chimney cleaned and inspected to prevent dangerous creosote buildup. Stock up on firewood and make sure your fireplace damper is working properly.

5. Protect Plumbing from Freezing

Inspect exposed pipes in basements, garages, or crawl spaces. Wrapping them in insulation sleeves can help prevent freezing and bursting during extreme cold. If you have outdoor faucets, disconnect hoses and shut off water supplies before the first frost.

6. Test Safety Devices

Fall is a great time to check smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers. Replace batteries and test all alarms to ensure they’re in working order before the heating season begins.

7. Outdoor Prep

Rake leaves, trim back overhanging branches, and winterize outdoor furniture. If you have a deck or patio, check for cracks or loose boards that could worsen in freezing conditions. Storing or covering items now will protect them from snow and ice.

Bonus Tip: Schedule a Home Inspection

Even with a thorough checklist, hidden issues can slip by unnoticed. A professional home inspection from Nexus Home Inspections gives you peace of mind, ensuring your home is safe and ready for the season. We’ll identify areas of concern before they become major problems, saving you time and money down the road.

🍂 Don’t wait until the first snowfall—start your fall prep today!

Contact Nexus Home Inspections to schedule your seasonal inspection and enjoy a worry-free winter in your home. Don't forget to call or text Nexus Home Inspections Today at 607-423-4202