🍁 Home Maintenance in the Fall 🍁

As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp,

fall is the perfect time to prepare your home for the coming winter months.

For homeowners looking to sell, this season offers a unique opportunity to showcase your property in its best light. A well-maintained home not only appeals to potential buyers but also enhances your lifestyle by ensuring comfort and safety. Here is a home maintenance checklist for this fall to make sure your home is in tip-top shape:

1. Inspect and Clean Gutters: Falling leaves can quickly clog gutters, leading to water damage. Make sure to clean them out and check for any signs of wear or damage.

2. Check the Roof: Look for missing or damaged shingles and have them repaired promptly. A sturdy roof is a major selling point and crucial for keeping your home warm and dry. In the PNW it is also advantageous to put preventative moss killer which if applied preferably is on a sunny day. One popular brand is called Moss Out! which is about 30 bucks for 1,000 sq ft of roof. You can buy it at Home Depot or your favorite home improvement store. 

3. Seal Windows and Doors: Check for gaps and use weatherstripping or caulk to seal any leaks. Weather stripping can save a ton on your heating bill so something to look into especially if you have an older home. 

4. Service the Heating System: Ensure your furnace or heating system is in good working order by having it serviced by a professional. Replace filters if necessary, as a well-functioning system is essential for both comfort and energy efficiency. You may be thinking... how often should I change my filter?

Well in general here is how often to change your filter. 

 1 to 2-inch filters need to be replaced every 1-3 months

3 to 4-inch filters every 6-9 Months.

5 to 6-inch filters are replaced every 9-12 months. 

Another tip: Take a marker and put the date you changed the filter so you can track when it needs to be replaced. And if you're tech-savvy, you can put a reminder on your phone. 

5. Chimney Maintenance: If you have a fireplace, now is the time to have the chimney inspected and cleaned. This not only prevents potential hazards but also makes your home more inviting. If you already know your chimney is safe but needs a bit of sprucing up, I have found The creosote sweeping log to be helpful. They cost about $20.

6. Yard Cleanup: Rake leaves, trim overgrown bushes, and clear away any debris. A tidy yard enhances curb appeal but also, you could start a composting pile so that in the spring, your compost is ready for your garden!

7. Check Smoke Detectors: Replace batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms to ensure they are functioning properly. This also prevents your fire alarm from randomly beeping, waking you up in the middle of the night now having to be on a quest to find which one is low on batteries.

8. Exterior Paint Touch-Ups: Touch up any peeling or chipped paint on the exterior of your home. This small effort can make a big difference in overall appearance. With all of the moisture we have, paint is a great barrier to keep your home protected from elements.

By taking these steps, you can maintain the integrity of your home while making it more appealing.  Not only will you be protecting your investment, but you'll also be comfortable knowing you have prepared for the colder months ahead.