Fall is the perfect time to get familiar with a few key home maintenance tasks. Don’t worry—it’s not as overwhelming as it sounds! A little preparation now can save you from bigger headaches down the road. Let’s dive into some simple steps to keep your home cozy, safe, and ready for the colder months.

1. Check Your Furnace

As the weather cools down, your furnace becomes your best friend. Before the first frost hits, give it some love by changing the air filter (this should be done every 2-3 months). It’s also a good idea to book a professional to inspect and clean your furnace annually. It’ll keep everything running smoothly and help prevent any heating hiccups this winter.

2. Clean Out the Gutters

Leaves are beautiful, but they can also be a pain when they clog your gutters. Water can pool, freeze, and cause damage to your roof or foundation if the gutters are blocked. Grab a ladder (and maybe a friend for safety) and clean out any leaves and debris. If you’re not keen on the heights, it might be worth hiring someone to handle this one!

3. Check Your Sump Pump (If You Have One)

If your new home has a sump pump, make sure it’s in working condition before winter arrives. Heavy fall rains or spring thaws can lead to excess water around your foundation, and a properly functioning sump pump helps prevent basement flooding. Test it by pouring a bucket of water into the pit and checking if the pump kicks on.

4. Drain and Store Your Garden Hoses

Before the first frost, disconnect your garden hoses and drain any water still inside. Leaving them attached could cause them to freeze and crack, and the same goes for outdoor faucets. If your home has a shut-off valve for exterior water, now’s the time to turn it off for the season.

5. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

You want to make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly, especially as you start using your furnace or space heaters more. Test them out, and if the batteries haven’t been changed in a while, swap them for fresh ones.

6. Trim Trees and Shrubs

Take a look at any trees or large shrubs around your house. Are the branches hanging close to your home or power lines? Trim them back to avoid damage or interference once the winter snow starts to weigh them down. It’ll also reduce the chance of pests using overhanging branches to access your roof or attic.

7. Rake Those Leaves

It’s tempting to leave the leaves for spring cleanup, but doing that can cause mold or dead patches in your lawn. Give your yard a good rake and maybe start a compost pile with the leaves if you’re feeling eco-friendly!

8. Clean Your Dryer Vent

Dryer vents can easily become clogged with lint, which is not only a fire hazard but also makes your dryer less efficient. Give it a thorough cleaning, and you’ll notice your clothes dry faster, too.

9. Inspect Outdoor Lighting

As the days get shorter, you’ll want to make sure your outdoor lighting is in good working order. Check any porch, pathway, or garage lights, and replace any burnt-out bulbs. This not only makes your home feel more welcoming but also improves safety as the darker evenings set in.

10. Take a Walk Around the Exterior

Check your outdoor faucets to make sure they’re not leaking, which can cause issues when temperatures drop. Also, inspect your driveway and walkways for any cracks or uneven surfaces. Small repairs now can help prevent further damage from ice expanding in the cracks over the winter.

While you're at it, look at your downspouts. Make sure they’re directing water away from your home’s foundation to avoid water pooling or freezing near your house. And don’t forget to peek into any window wells to ensure they’re clear of debris.

Tackling these tasks might feel like a lot, but once you get into a routine, it becomes second nature. Plus, a little maintenance now means you’ll have more time to enjoy your new home all winter long, worry-free! So grab a pumpkin spiced latte, roll up your sleeves, and get your home ready for the season ahead. You’ve got this!

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us at Tait Real Estate. We're here to help you with every step of home ownership. 

🏡 Tait Real Estate - Realty Executives Saskatoon 🌟

Saskatoon's Premier Real Estate Experts

Jamie Tait
📞 Phone: 306-203-0004
📧 Email: jtait@realtyexecutives.com

Courtney Tait
📞 Phone: 306-221-2321
📧 Email: ctait@realtyexecutives.com

Ross Tait
📞 Phone: 306-230-2338
📧 Email: rtait@realtyexecutives.com