3 Essential Fall Cleanup Tasks you must do
As the leaves begin to change color and the cool breeze sets in, it’s a clear signal that fall is upon us. This season isn’t just a time for pumpkin spice and cozy sweaters; it’s also the perfect opportunity for homeowners to prepare their property for the colder months ahead. Performing a few key maintenance tasks can protect your home from potential damage, save energy, and keep your living space safe and comfortable throughout winter. Here are three crucial fall cleanup tasks every homeowner should tackle.
1. Cleaning Out the Gutters
One of the most critical tasks in fall home maintenance is cleaning out the gutters. Throughout the year, gutters can become clogged with leaves, twigs, and debris. During the fall, this issue is exacerbated as trees shed their leaves. Why is this task so essential? Clogged gutters can lead to water backing up against the house's foundation, which can cause water damage and costly repairs.
To clean your gutters, use a sturdy ladder to reach them safely. Wear gloves, and use a gutter scoop or a small garden trowel to remove debris. After removing the bulk of the material, flush the gutters with a garden hose to ensure water can flow freely. This is also a good time to check for any signs of gutter wear or damage and repair them as necessary. If heights are not your thing, consider hiring a professional to do this task safely.
A very important fall cleanup task is to to clean gutters from leaves and debris.
2. Turning Off Hose Bibs and Winterizing Outdoor Plumbing
Winterizing outdoor plumbing is another vital step in preparing for the colder months. This includes turning off hose bibs (outdoor faucets) and draining garden hoses to prevent water from freezing inside and causing the pipes to burst. Start by shutting off the water supply to outdoor faucets from the inside shut-off valve, then open the outside valve to let any remaining water flow out. Additionally, if you have an irrigation system, you should blow out the lines with compressed air to prevent freezing and cracking.
3. Servicing and Preparing Winter Equipment
While you are storing away your summer equipment like lawn mowers, it’s also time to get your winter equipment ready. Service your snowblower and other winter tools by changing the oil, checking the spark plug, and ensuring that all moving parts are lubricated. If your snowblower needs more substantial repairs or a replacement part, it's better to handle it now rather than during the first snowfall.
Similarly, for lawn mowers and other summer equipment, clean them thoroughly to remove grass, dirt, and debris. Drain the fuel or add a stabilizer to prevent the gasoline from deteriorating and damaging the engine over the winter. Store all equipment in a dry, protected space to prevent rust and weather damage.
It’s time to get your winter equipment ready - Snowblowers, Shovels, Salt, etc
In Summary
Taking the time to perform these fall maintenance tasks can prevent major headaches in the harsher winter months. Cleaning gutters, winterizing outdoor plumbing, and preparing seasonal equipment not only keep your home safe and functioning properly but also help you avoid unexpected repairs and expenses. With these chores checked off your list, you can enjoy the fall season knowing that your home is prepared for whatever the winter brings. Also don’t forget to check on your elderly neighbors to ensure their safety and that they are prepared for the Fall/Winter season ahead.
Check in on older friends and family members to ensure that they are okay and that they have the resources they need to stay safe and healthy.
If you or someone you knows needs assistance with preparing your home for the Fall, please contact Lighthaus Work for an estimate or additional recommendations.
