7 Tips to Prepare Your Home for Fall

We hope everyone in the Mohawk Valley enjoyed their Labor Day Weekend as they get the kids ready for school and think about cooler weather to come.

And speaking of weather, September brings some of the most beautiful days we experience here in the Utica area. Low humidity and sunny skies make it the perfect time to prepare your home for the fall season.

With that in mind, we thought this would be a good time to offer this guide on how to get your home ready for fall. Taking steps now can help you enjoy a cozy and comfortable home as the weather cools down.

Save on Home Energy and Avoid Potential Problems

Inspect and Clean the Gutters

Fallen leaves are one of the most beautiful signs of autumn, but they can also clog your gutters if not addressed. Clogged gutters can lead to water damage and ice dams later in the season. Clean out any debris and make sure the downspouts are clear. Consider installing gutter guards to prevent future build-up. Also, check for any signs of damage to ensure they’re functioning properly.

Check and Seal Windows and Doors

Drafts can significantly impact your home’s heating efficiency, leading to higher energy bills. Inspect your windows and doors for any gaps or cracks. Use weatherstripping around doors and caulk any gaps in window frames to keep the warm air inside and the cold air out. If your windows are older, you might consider installing storm windows or using window film to add an extra layer of insulation.

Service Your Heating System

Before the cold sets in, it’s crucial to have your heating system inspected and serviced. Whether you use a furnace, heat pump, or boiler, regular maintenance ensures it’s running efficiently and safely. Replace the air filters, check the thermostat, and consider having a professional inspection to catch any issues early. If you use a fireplace, now is also the time to have the chimney cleaned and inspected.

Inspect and Clean the Roof

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. Check for any missing or damaged shingles that could lead to leaks during fall storms. Clean off any debris, such as leaves and branches, that could cause moisture build-up and lead to rot. It’s also wise to check the flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights to ensure they’re sealed tightly.

Prepare Your Lawn and Garden

Fall is the ideal time to prepare your lawn and garden for the coming winter. Rake up leaves regularly to prevent them from smothering your grass. Aerate your lawn to allow moisture and nutrients to penetrate the soil, and apply a fall fertilizer to promote root growth. Trim back any dead branches from trees and shrubs to prevent them from breaking under the weight of snow and ice. If you have outdoor furniture, cover it or store it away to protect it from the elements.

Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

As you prepare for the colder months, you’ll likely be using your heating system more frequently, increasing the risk of fire or carbon monoxide leaks. Test all your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they’re working properly. Replace any old batteries, and consider upgrading to newer models if your detectors are more than ten years old.

Stock Up on Cold Weather Essentials

Finally, make sure you’re stocked up on essentials for the colder months. This includes checking your supply of firewood if you have a wood-burning fireplace, ensuring you have ice melt or sand for icy walkways, and purchasing a snow shovel if you don’t already have one. It’s also a good idea to have extra blankets, flashlights, and batteries on hand in case of a power outage.

By taking these steps to prepare your home for fall, you’ll ensure a comfortable, efficient, and safe environment as the temperatures begin to drop.

And because winter can be hard on your home, call us to be sure you have adequate insurance coverage for your house and its contents. We’ll go over a replacement cost estimator with you and quote the right protection at the best price.

So while you’re going through the above checklist, enjoy the beautiful Central New York fall season!

Until next time,

Your SZW Team

SZW Insurance is your Utica area Trusted Choice™ independent insurance agent. Call us for a quote on insurance for your home, car, business, or life at 315.792.0000. Or request a quote here.