Fall Maintenance Check List

As all good things must come to an end, summer is wrapping up and we’re rapidly nearing crisp fall days – and the chill that swiftly follows. Are you ready for cooler weather and an autumn breeze? Make sure your home is ready too by following our fall maintenance check list.

Prep the Fireplace

Everyone loves to cozy up next to a warm fireplace as the weather gets colder. But before you start using your fireplace again, make sure your chimney and fireplace have been cleaned and inspected since you used them last, as well as smoke detectors, air filters and vents. If you’re lucky enough to have a fireplace like the 42” natural gas fireplaces found in our Shoreline homes, clean them easily by wiping down the inside edges and exterior with warm water.

Refresh Your Textiles

Before you break out the holiday décor, decorate your space with heavier-weight fall accessories, such as textured blankets, pillows and curtains. Replace bright summer prints with darker colors to give your living spaces a whole new feel for a new season. Thicker textiles such as faux fur or knit blankets will transform your space into a cozy, warm destination to start fall off comfortably. 

Clean Outdoors

Leaves and other debris can fill up your gutters, and when mixed with rain and snow, form an ice dam. Clear leaves, nests and debris from your gutters to prepare for up-coming weather, and check for leaks. Also, trim landscaping and clean off any outdoor furniture to prepare for storage. While it may not be time to put them away just yet, they’ll be ready when it is.

 Seal Up After Summer

Sealing is the name of the game with most home prep for fall and winter. Cracks in driveways or pathways will get worse with cold weather, so filling them with sealant before the weather turns is a great way to prevent damage. It is also important to seal your doors and windows, so make sure your weather stripping is air tight to keep your house comfy and your energy bill down.

Prep Your Pipes

Check your outdoor faucets. If they’re leaky, the cold weather could cause that water to freeze – and your pipes to burst. Burst pipes can be disastrous, causing flooding, extensive damage, and hefty repair quotes. The best way to freeze-proof faucets and pipes is to replace them with faucets that have safety valves. Some climates even recommend emptying all water from faucets, turning off the water to the pipes and covering the faucets. This prepares them for colder weather and provides you with peace of mind.

Don’t let autumn sneak up on you and your home this year. Get ready early and cover all your bases indoors and outdoors. Search online for fall maintenance tips that are specific to your climate if you’re not part of the Park City area. But if you’re looking to join the community, talk to a GCD team member to find your new home with us. Visit https://shorelineparkcity.com/ today!