Prep Your Home for Winter with our Fall Maintenance Checklist

As the seasons change, preparing your home for winter is essential to protect it from harsh weather. With Baney Construction’s handy fall maintenance checklist, you can get your home ready and avoid costly repairs during the colder months. Whether you prefer DIY projects or want to hire professionals, following these steps will help you enjoy a stress-free autumn and a well-prepared home for winter.  

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1. Clean Your Gutters  

Your gutters play a vital role in protecting your home by directing water away from the roof and foundation. Clogged gutters can lead to water damage, rust, and even basement flooding. Before leaves start piling up, clear out your gutters and consider adding mesh guards to keep debris out. A properly maintained drainage system ensures your home stays protected through rain and snow.  

2. Seal Air Leaks Around Windows and Doors  

Don’t let cold air sneak into your warm home! Inspect the caulking and weatherstripping around windows and doors for gaps or wear. Sealing these leaks can save up to 20% on heating bills, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. If you notice persistent drafts, it may be time to upgrade to energy-efficient windows with multi-pane glass. Baney Construction can recommend the best replacement options to keep your home comfortable all winter.  

3. Inspect Your Roof for Damage  

A small roof issue can quickly become a major headache during winter storms. Use binoculars to check for cracked or missing shingles and inspect metal flashing around chimneys and vents. Granules in your gutters are a warning sign that shingles are deteriorating. If you spot trouble, Baney Construction offers expert roofing services to ensure your home stays leak-free all season.  For a physical roof inspection, call Baney Construction for a FREE Roof Inspection.

4. Check Exterior Siding for Animal or Storm Damage  

Fall is a great time to inspect your siding for damage caused by animals, wind, or storms. Look for cracks, dents, or missing pieces that could allow moisture or pests into your home. If you notice any damage, Baney Construction provides professional siding repair and replacement services to restore your home's exterior before winter arrives. Addressing siding issues early will help prevent more extensive problems later.  

5. Winterize Outdoor Faucets and Irrigation Systems  

Frozen pipes can cause major damage. Shut off water to outdoor faucets and drain the remaining water to prevent freezing. If you have an irrigation system, follow the manufacturer’s instructions or hire a blowout service to purge the lines. Baney Construction recommends styrofoam faucet covers for added protection if you don’t have frost-free faucets.  

6. Replace Furnace Filters  

A clean furnace filter improves air quality and helps your heating system run efficiently. Check filters monthly and replace them if needed. Foam filters can be vacuumed, while metal or electrostatic filters should be washed with water. This small maintenance step can lead to big savings on energy bills.  

7. Schedule a Furnace Check-Up  

Don’t wait until the first cold snap to discover an issue with your heating system. Schedule an inspection with a professional to make sure your furnace is ready for winter. Strange noises, poor heating performance, or blocked ducts are signs it’s time for service. Regular maintenance keeps your furnace running smoothly and helps avoid costly breakdowns.  

8. Prepare Your Fireplace for Cozy Nights  

An annual chimney inspection is crucial, especially if you use your fireplace often. Creosote buildup is a fire hazard, so have your flue checked and cleaned by a chimney professional. Make sure your damper works properly and that the chimney cap is intact to keep out debris and nesting birds.

9. Keep Your Home Comfortable with a Humidifier  

Winter air can dry out wood furniture, skin, and sinuses. To avoid these issues, inspect your humidifier's plates or pads and clean them if necessary. Keeping your humidifier in top shape ensures a more comfortable living environment for you and your family.  

10. Review Your Home’s Safety Features  

Safety checks are essential to keep your family and home protected. Replace the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and ensure each floor has an A-B-C-rated fire extinguisher. Check that windows are clear for emergency exits and review your family’s fire escape plan. Baney Construction encourages homeowners to replace fire extinguishers every six years to ensure they function correctly.  

11. Prep Your Lawn for Winter  

Prepare your lawn for spring growth by completing essential yard work in the fall. Rake leaves, aerate the soil, and fertilize grass, shrubs, and trees. Winterizing your landscape keeps it healthy throughout the cold months. If you need extra help, professional lawn care services can save you time and effort.  

12. Touch Up Exterior Paint  

Fall is an ideal time to address any exterior paint touch-ups. A fresh coat of paint protects wood surfaces from moisture and snow. Be sure to complete painting projects before temperatures drop below 45-50°F for the best results.

13. Deep Clean Carpets Before Winter  

Fall is the perfect time to clean your carpets, as it’s cool enough to open windows for ventilation without worrying about freezing temperatures. Renting a carpet cleaner is an option, but hiring professionals ensures a deeper clean. Clean carpets will help improve air quality, especially during the months your home is closed up.  

Get Professional Help from Baney Construction  

Tackling your fall maintenance checklist is the key to a safe, comfortable winter. From roof and siding inspections to gutters, windows, and doors, Baney Construction is your go-to contractor in Illinois. Contact us today to schedule your fall maintenance services and ensure your home is ready for winter weather.  

Call Baney Construction today – let’s get your home winter-ready!