Getting your home ready for fall: Smart seasonal tips

Fall is a transitional season that deserves our full attention. With just a few simple precautions, we can avoid unnecessary headaches and protect our property before winter arrives.

Here are our top tips for maintaining your home this fall:

1. Clean the gutters
Dead leaves pile up quickly. Clogged gutters can lead to water infiltration and roof damage. Regular cleaning helps prevent these risks.

2. Check seals and openings
Inspect windows, doors and thresholds to prevent heat loss. Proper caulking improves energy efficiency and helps reduce heating costs.

3. Inspect the roof and foundation
Look for cracks or damaged shingles. A preventive inspection can help avoid costly repairs in the spring and reinforce your home’s structure before harsh weather sets in.

4. Store and secure outdoor items
Clean and safely store patio furniture, lounge chairs, tools, bikes and barbecues. This protects your belongings from the elements and reduces the risk of theft or damage.

5. Prepare the lawn and garden

• Remove dead leaves: This allows air and light to reach the grass, helping prevent mould and fungus growth. 
• Mow the lawn shorter: Long grass under snow can clump and rot. 
• Aerate the soil: Using a lawn aerator helps water and nutrients reach the roots more effectively, strengthening the turf. 
• Apply fall fertilizer: A potassium-rich fertilizer helps roots grow stronger in preparation for winter.

Fall home maintenance is essential to prevent winter-related damage, improve energy efficiency, and extend the life of your outdoor installations. By following these simple steps, you’ll protect your comfort and your investments while making the seasonal transition smoother.