I live in a part of the US that gets very different weather season to season, and I need to prepare my house for the variations in the weather or I could have major damage. I do this mostly 2 times a year: in spring and fall. For fall, I need to prepare for winter weather that could start anytime between end of September to November.
Outside
- Put away summer equipment like hoses, gardening equipment, etc.
- Rake leaves, trim up bushes for last time in season
- Check with plow contractor for seasonal prices
- Get projects done that require temperate weather and airflow like painting, staining, etc.
- Prepare yard/house for Christmas lights if possible
Winterize
- Check outdoor faucets
- Schedule to have sprinklers blown out, or put it in your calendar to do yourself
- Protect your outdoor air conditioning unit with cover, or take down window units
- Do maintenance and winterize outdoor power tools like lawn mower, hedge trimmer, etc.
Stock Up
- Check inventory of road salt and purchase estimated amount needed for season (price increases the later you buy it!)
- Buy driveway markers for plow
- Consider buying thermal curtains to keep in heat during winter
- Put winter survival kits in each car
Clean
- Seal windows and door frames with updated weather sealant or clear plastic
- Scrub out Grill/Smoker for season
- Wipe down and store deck furniture
- Clean summer sand out of cars and garage
- Go through summer clothes and shoes and store for season
- Clean areas of house that would not be fun to clean in winter weather like garage, three-season room, porch, unfinished basement, etc.
Download the Fall House Maintenance Checklist Here