How to Maintain Your Home's Exterior for Fall

As the crisp air and vibrant hues of fall arrive, it's easy for homeowners to let seasonal maintenance slip through the cracks. Yet, embracing these tasks is key to keeping your home both efficient and appealing. With the chill of winter on the horizon and nature's transformation at your doorstep, now’s the perfect time to tackle those essential maintenance jobs and ensure your home is ready for the season ahead.

Our team at Merry Maids® has compiled an essential fall-specific exterior maintenance task list to help you preserve your home's longevity.

The Importance of Fall Maintenance

Taking care of fall maintenance is about more than just looks—it's like giving your home a little extra love to avoid expensive fixes later. By checking and sprucing up the outside of your house, you can catch and tackle any budding problems before they grow bigger.

For example, clearing gutters and ensuring that seals around windows and doors are secure helps prevent drafts and keeps water from getting in. Plus, addressing any wear and tear on outdoor paint and surfaces can help stop deterioration that may cost more to repair.

Inspecting the Roof

Begin with your roof, your home's first line of defense against the weather. Look for loose or damaged shingles and swap out worn ones. Having a professional roofer address any visible damage is important to keep everything secure.

Clearing Gutters

After tackling the roof, it's time to pay attention to your gutters and downspouts. Keeping them clear is key to preventing water buildup that could harm your roof and foundation. Make sure water is flowing away from the foundation and make any needed repairs. This simple routine can help you avoid expensive fixes down the road.

Preparing Windows and Doors

Next, let's pay attention to your windows and doors! As fall approaches, it's important to check their seals and caulking. Look for air leaks. If you spot gaps, some new caulk can do the trick. Well-sealed doors and windows keep your home cozy and energy efficient.

Keeping your window frames clean and in good shape is also super helpful. Give them a quick wipe to remove dirt and enjoy a clearer view! Make sure they open and close easily. If you’re in a place with tough winters, consider adding storm doors and windows for extra protection.

Exterior Painting and Staining

Take a look at your home's exterior paint or stain. While it might seem minor, a solid paint job does wonders to protect your home.

Quality paint or stain acts like a shield against the elements. It protects your home from moisture, UV rays, and temperature swings. Moisture can lead to issues like wood rot and mold, which can affect your home's structure. Paint and stain help prevent such problems by keeping things dry. Plus, the sun's UV rays can cause fading and wear over time, but a good coat of paint or stain has pigments that reflect these rays, keeping your home's exterior looking great for longer.

Fall is a great time to check on your surfaces. Look for peeling or chipping. If necessary, give it a fresh coat of paint or stain. Before you start, prepare your surface by cleaning thoroughly and sanding any rough areas. Pick quality products that work well in fall conditions, as they often stick better in cooler weather. Apply your paint or stain during mild days to ensure it dries just right.

Landscaping and Garden Care

Don't forget about your garden—it needs some love, too! Start by raking up leaves to keep your lawn healthy and reduce mold. A thick blanket of leaves can harm your grass, so let's keep it clear.

Get your garden winter-ready by trimming perennial plants and clearing away any dead foliage that could invite pests. Why not add some autumn charm by planting flowers like chrysanthemums or pansies for a splash of vibrant seasonal color?

And remember, a layer of mulch on your flower beds will help keep the soil temperature steady and lock in moisture through the colder months.

Outdoor Furniture and Accessories

As the temperature drops, don’t neglect your outdoor furniture and accessories. Start by giving your patio furniture a little TLC! Over the summer, dirt and grime can build up, so a quick wash with mild soap and water will work wonders. Once it's clean, decide whether to store it inside or cover it with tarps to keep it safe from the weather.

Next, take a stroll around your outdoor spaces, like decks and patios. Look for any signs of wear and tear, and fix any loose boards or railings to keep everything safe and sound.

As the temperatures drop, it's time to prepare your grills and fire pits for cozy evenings. Give your grill a thorough clean, removing any leftover gunk from last season, and store your propane tanks safely.

Fire pits add warmth and charm to autumn nights. To prepare your fire pit for crisp fall evenings, double-check that it is in top shape, inspect for structural issues, and clear out any ash.

Don’t Forget Your Interior!

While you focus on these important maintenance tasks on the outside, let Merry Maids take care of your home's inside!. Our professional cleaning services help keep your indoor spaces just as inviting.