As autumn settles in and the temperatures drop, it’s time to prepare your home and property for the coming winter months. You can do this yourself or hire a handyman.
Ensuring that your home is ready for winter not only keeps you comfortable but also helps prevent costly damage and repairs in the spring. Here’s a comprehensive fall maintenance checklist to guide you through essential tasks:
Fall Maintenance Checklist For Your Handyman
#1: Lawn Mower Care
Before storing your lawnmower for the season, take steps to protect it from winter damage. Consider using fuel stabilizer to prevent gasoline degradation. Alternatively, run the mower until it’s out of gas and lubricate the engine for an easy start next spring. Don’t forget to clean the mower deck to avoid grass and debris buildup.
#2: Disconnect Garden Hoses
Avoid frozen pipes and faucets by disconnecting garden hoses and draining them. Turn off shutoff valves on water supply lines connected to outdoor faucets and store your hoses in a sheltered location.
#3: Winterize Your Sprinkler System
Protect your irrigation system from freezing by shutting off the water supply, deactivating the automatic controller, and draining the system. Consider professional assistance from a handyman in Myrtle Beach if your system lacks drain valves to ensure proper winterization.
#4: Seal Air Leaks
Invest in exterior caulk to seal cracks and gaps around your home. This simple step prevents moisture infiltration and helps conserve energy. Choose a day with temperatures above 50 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal caulking.
#5: Clear Gutters
Prevent ice dams and costly repairs by cleaning your gutters after the leaves have fallen. Check for sagging gutters and replace any damaged sections. Ensure downspouts extend at least five feet away from your home’s foundation to avoid foundation issues.
#6: Roof Inspection
Safely inspect your roof for signs of damage using binoculars. Look for buckled, cracked, or missing shingles, as well as rust spots on flashing. Replace damaged shingles promptly and inspect the plumbing vent stack for cracks or wear. Consider professional roofing services if needed.
#7: Adjust Drainage
Ensure that the soil around your foundation slopes away from your home to prevent water saturation, which can lead to cracks and leaks. Keep soil away from your siding to avoid contact.
#8: HVAC System Maintenance
Schedule a professional heating and cooling service to check and tune up your HVAC system for the upcoming heating season. Don’t forget to change furnace filters and replace the humidifier’s filter if applicable.
#9: Prune Plants and Trees
Late fall is the ideal time to prune plants and trees to maintain a safe distance from your home. This prevents moisture from dripping onto your roof and siding and protects against strong winds. Consult your state’s extension service for region-specific pruning advice.
#10: Fireplace Inspection
Ensure the safety of your fireplace by inspecting the flue with a flashlight and verifying the damper’s functionality. Check for obstructions, and if you find any damage to the firebox, consider arranging a professional fireplace and chimney inspection.
By completing these essential tasks before winter arrives, you’ll not only make your home more comfortable but also protect it from potential winter-related issues, saving you time and money in the long run.
Call The Handyman now if you need help in maintaining your home.
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The Handyman
Myrtle Beach, SC
843-286-5873
handymanmyrtlebeach.com
