As the vibrant colors of fall arrive in Austin, it's the perfect time to give your home some seasonal TLC. At Moreland Properties, we understand that your home is one of your most valuable investments. As we work to ensure you find the perfect home, we also want to help you protect and maintain it. That’s why we’ve put together this fall home maintenance checklist—to guide you through essential tasks to keep your home in top shape as temperatures cool and the holiday season approaches. Whether you're getting your property ready to sell or settling in for the fall, these tips will keep your home looking great and running smoothly.
Clean your gutters and spouts:
As the leaves fall off the trees and autumn storms begin, clean out those gutters to ensure they are not clogged. Clogged gutters can lead to foundation problems, wall/ceiling damage, or exterior damage. Gutter cleaning should be done at least twice a year, once in the fall and once in the spring.
Inspect your roof:
While you clean the gutters, take a moment to inspect your roof to be sure no repairs are needed.
Add seasonal plants and mulch:
Fall is the ideal season to focus on landscaping tasks that will protect your yard and prepare it for winter. One simple yet impactful project is adding seasonal plants to your entryway or garden beds which can also bring vibrant color and texture to your landscape. Consider planting fall flowers like mums, pansies, asters, or ornamental grasses, and include hardy shrubs like evergreens and boxwood to maintain greenery throughout the season. Mulching is a great way to help retain soil moisture and insulate plant roots from temperature fluctuations. Apply a fresh layer of mulch around trees, shrubs, and garden beds to safeguard them during the colder months.
Inspect your trees:
It's beneficial to trim trees and shrubs. Removing dead or damaged branches prevents breakage from snow or ice while shaping shrubs improves their overall health. Be sure to avoid heavy pruning of spring-blooming plants, as this could reduce their flowers for next season. For your outdoor plants and shrubs, early fall is a good time to water deeply and apply a slow-release fertilizer to help them store nutrients for winter. As the first frost approaches, you can cover delicate plants with burlap or frost blankets to protect them from freezing.
Get your HVAC unit inspected:
It is recommended to get your HVAC unit inspected by a professional at least once per year. If you are late for your checkup, consider calling a professional before the cold months are here in full swing.
Give your lawn some love:
Fall watering and fertilizing can help your lawn bounce back from the brutal heat of summer and ensure that it returns healthy in the spring.
Add some curb appeal:
Update your outdoor lighting with modern fixtures or add pathway lights to guide guests and create a cozy ambiance during the darker evenings. Replace burnt-out bulbs and consider upgrading to energy-efficient LED bulbs for long-lasting, brighter illumination. These small but effective projects will make your home feel welcoming and well-maintained, boosting its curb appeal throughout the fall months.
Winterizing outdoor living:
For your deck or patio, give it a thorough cleaning by sweeping away debris and fall leaves, which can trap moisture and lead to mold or staining. Applying a waterproof sealant can also help protect wood or stone surfaces from cracking due to freeze-thaw cycles. For homeowners with pools or hot tubs, winterizing is crucial to avoid damage. Skim leaves and debris regularly to prevent clogged pipes, and drain or lower the water level as recommended by your pool manufacturer. Add winterizing chemicals to balance the water and prevent algae
growth.
Decluttering:
With the holidays fast approaching, fall is the ideal time to declutter and get organized for a smooth, stress-free winter season. Start by tackling storage spaces like closets, attics, and basements, where unused items tend to accumulate. Sort through seasonal belongings—such as summer clothes, old decorations, and unused holiday items—and decide what to keep, donate, or discard. Use clear storage bins and label them for easy access when it’s time to pull out holiday decorations or winter gear.
Check for air leaks and seal:
Save on your winter energy bill by checking for drafts in your home. Walk around with a candle or stick of incense by windows and doors. If the smoke moves, you have an air leak that needs sealing.
Check your smoke detectors:
Smoke detectors should be checked once per month, so take a few moments to test them before the winter months are here.
Change your air filters:
Air filters should be changed every 3 months, so take the changing season as an opportunity to improve the air quality in your home.
Refresh your decor:
The cooling temperatures are a great excuse to bring out the cozy throws, seasonal decor, and candles.
At Moreland Properties, we believe that a well-maintained home not only increases its value but also enhances your overall comfort and quality of life. By completing these fall maintenance tasks, you’re ensuring that your home is ready to withstand the winter months and continue to provide you with the warmth and security you deserve. Whether you're thinking of buying, selling, or simply want advice on home care, our team at Moreland Properties is always here to assist you. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you with all your real estate needs this season and beyond.