How To Prepare Your Home for Winter: Fall Maintenance Tips

Fall is a beautiful time of the year here in Northwest Arkansas, with crisp air and stunning foliage. But as the leaves change colors, it’s also the perfect time to remind you to prepare your home for the colder months ahead.

Taking care of some key maintenance tasks now can help to prevent serious water damage from winter weather, that will save you a headache and possibly a lot of money down the road.

As your local disaster restoration experts, we’ve seen firsthand the damage that can be caused by burst pipes, appliance malfunctions, roof leaks, clogged gutters and other winter-related issues.

In this blog we will share some essential fall home maintenance tips to help protect your property and ensure a “fresh start” for your home this winter.

1. Clear Out Gutters and Downspouts

This is one of the most important tasks you can do for your home. Clogged gutters can lead to water overflow, which can cause significant problems. When water has nowhere to go, it can seep into your roof, foundation, or even your basement.

During the winter, this trapped water can freeze and expand, leading to ice dams that can damage your roof and siding significantly. It’s important to clear out leaves, twigs, and other debris to ensure proper water flow.

2. Check Your Roof for Damage

A small roof issue can become a huge problem when winter snow and ice arrive. Before the cold weather sets in, we highly recommend that you inspect your roof for any loose or missing shingles.

Pay close attention to areas around your chimneys, vents, and skylights. One of the most important tasks we suggest is to have a professional roof inspection (if you need a recommendation, we can share guidance). This will give you peace of mind throughout the fall and winter months.

3. Insulate Exposed Pipes

Freezing temperatures can often cause pipes to freeze and burst, leading to major water damage. If you have any exposed pipes in unheated areas like your basement, crawl space, or garage, it’s a good idea to insulate them.

The cost of insulation will be much cheaper than a major water leak. Pipe insulation is inexpensive and easy to install and can make a huge difference in preventing a costly disaster. Important: Don’t forget to drain outdoor spigots and store your garden hoses.

4. Seal Windows and Doors

Drafty windows and doors don’t just make your home feel chilly; they also let heat escape, driving up your energy bills. Use caulk and weatherstripping to seal any gaps around windows and doors.

This simple step will not only make your home more comfortable but will also help you save on heating costs throughout the winter.

5. Service Your Furnace

The last thing you want is for your furnace to stop working on the coldest day of the year. Schedule a professional tune-up for your heating system to ensure it’s running efficiently and safely.

Our technicians can clean the unit, check for any issues, and replace the filter. A well-maintained furnace will keep your home warm and can also help prevent potential fire damage.

6. Inspect Your Fireplace and Chimney

If you plan on using your fireplace this winter, it’s crucial to have it inspected and cleaned by a professional. A chimney sweep can remove soot and creosote buildup, which are highly flammable and can cause chimney fires. They’ll also check for any blockages from bird nests or other debris, ensuring proper ventilation.

By taking the time to complete these quick fall maintenance tasks, you can protect your Northwest Arkansas home and enjoy the season without worrying about what the winter might bring.

If an unfortunate event like a burst pipe or a flooded basement does occur, remember that 911 Restoration of Northwest Arkansas is here for you 24/7 to give you a fresh start.

We offer a full range of water damage restoration services to help you get your life and your home back in order. Give us a call at any time for a fresh start!

Service Areas | Contact us today – we’re here to help!