Boise in autumn is a bright reminder that we live in an incredible place. The leaves are changing, the scorching summer days are behind us, and football has begun! With the first day of fall right around the corner, now is a great time to get your home ready for the cooler months ahead. Here are 10 simple maintenance tasks to help prepare your home for fall and winter.
Trim Tree Branches
Check for any tree branches that are close to or touching the house and trim them back before winter weather arrives.
Disconnect Hoses
Remove all garden hoses and store them inside until spring. Consider covering exposed pipes and outdoor spigots for added protection during freezing temperatures.
Winterize the Sprinkler System
Protect your sprinkler system from freezing temperatures by having it properly drained before winter. To minimize the risk of cracked pipes and valves, call a professional to blow out your system.
Replace Your Furnace Filter
Replacing your furnace filter regularly helps your system run efficiently and can prolong the life of your equipment. A good rule of thumb is every three months, or more often when needed. It’s especially important this year after the smoky summer we had!
Clean the Gutters
Clear leaves and debris from your gutters so rain and melting snow can drain properly away from your home. While you’re at it, check the downspouts and look for any damaged sections that may need repair or replacement.
Inspect Your Roof
Visually inspect the roof for any loose or missing shingles or rusty flashing. Check that all rubber vent stacks, usually called boots, are in good condition and free of cracks.
Check the Condition of Your Exterior Paint
Take a look around your home for peeling, cracking, or worn paint. Keeping exterior paint in good condition helps protect your siding from moisture and extends its life.
Caulk the Cracks
Seal any cracks between the trim, siding, and windows with caulk, and make sure your weatherstripping is still effective. A good seal helps keep moisture and chilly drafts outside while improving your home’s energy efficiency.
Check Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Check for proper operation and full battery power. Use the test button or a can of smoke to make sure your smoke detector is working properly. Or, if you're like us and are kitchen challenged, simply cook dinner!
Reverse the Ceiling Fans
During colder months, set your ceiling fan to run clockwise at a low speed. This gently circulates the warm air that collects near the ceiling back down into the room and can help keep your home more comfortable.
If you aren’t confident tackling any of these projects yourself, give us a call at (208) 327-2127 and we’ll be happy to recommend trusted professionals who can help.
Trim Tree Branches
Check for any tree branches that are close to or touching the house and trim them back before winter weather arrives.
Disconnect Hoses
Remove all garden hoses and store them inside until spring. Consider covering exposed pipes and outdoor spigots for added protection during freezing temperatures.
Winterize the Sprinkler System
Protect your sprinkler system from freezing temperatures by having it properly drained before winter. To minimize the risk of cracked pipes and valves, call a professional to blow out your system.
Replace Your Furnace Filter
Replacing your furnace filter regularly helps your system run efficiently and can prolong the life of your equipment. A good rule of thumb is every three months, or more often when needed. It’s especially important this year after the smoky summer we had!
Clean the Gutters
Clear leaves and debris from your gutters so rain and melting snow can drain properly away from your home. While you’re at it, check the downspouts and look for any damaged sections that may need repair or replacement.
Inspect Your Roof
Visually inspect the roof for any loose or missing shingles or rusty flashing. Check that all rubber vent stacks, usually called boots, are in good condition and free of cracks.
Check the Condition of Your Exterior Paint
Take a look around your home for peeling, cracking, or worn paint. Keeping exterior paint in good condition helps protect your siding from moisture and extends its life.
Caulk the Cracks
Seal any cracks between the trim, siding, and windows with caulk, and make sure your weatherstripping is still effective. A good seal helps keep moisture and chilly drafts outside while improving your home’s energy efficiency.
Check Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Check for proper operation and full battery power. Use the test button or a can of smoke to make sure your smoke detector is working properly. Or, if you're like us and are kitchen challenged, simply cook dinner!
Reverse the Ceiling Fans
During colder months, set your ceiling fan to run clockwise at a low speed. This gently circulates the warm air that collects near the ceiling back down into the room and can help keep your home more comfortable.
If you aren’t confident tackling any of these projects yourself, give us a call at (208) 327-2127 and we’ll be happy to recommend trusted professionals who can help.
Another Beautiful Fall Has Arrived in Boise!
