As the days get shorter and the temperatures start to drop, fall is the perfect time to get your home ready for the colder months ahead. A little maintenance now can help you avoid costly repairs later, keep your home comfortable, and give you peace of mind all winter long. Here are some key projects to tackle this season:
1. Seal Concrete Walks and Driveways
Concrete surfaces take a beating from rain, snow, and ice. When water seeps into cracks and freezes, it expands, creating larger cracks and long-term damage. If you are in a region of the country that uses road salt, this can particularly leave pock marks and cause spalling when snow melts from your car tires. Fallen leaves may look pretty, but when left on driveways, patios, or sidewalks, they can break down and release tannins that leave stubborn stains on your concrete. Protecting your surfaces with a quality sealer helps prevent discoloration and keeps them looking their best season after season. Applying a clear, weather-resistant sealer like DRYLOK® Clear Masonry Protector can help protect sidewalks, driveways, and patios from water intrusion and freeze-thaw cycles. The sealer not only preserves the surface but also makes cleanup easier when leaves and dirt collect.
2. Clean Out Gutters and Downspouts
Clogged gutters are one of the main culprits behind ice dams, water damage, and even foundation problems. Take the time to remove leaves, twigs, and debris from your gutters and downspouts. Flush them with a garden hose to ensure proper drainage. If you notice sagging sections, loose fasteners, or leaks at the joints, make repairs before heavy rains and snow arrive.
3. Patch Foundation Cracks
Small cracks in your foundation may not seem like a big deal, but left unchecked, they can let in water or even pests as the weather changes. Use a fast-setting hydraulic cement, like DRYLOK® Fast Plug, to quickly seal up holes and cracks. This product expands as it sets, ensuring a tight, waterproof seal. For larger concerns or cracks that continue to widen, consider consulting a professional.
4. Inspect Your Roof
Autumn storms and winter snow put your roof to the test. Walk around your home and look for missing shingles, damaged flashing, or areas where water may collect. From the inside, check your attic for signs of leaks or moisture. Making small repairs now can save you from a big headache when snow and ice accumulate.
5. Service Your Heating System
Before you turn on the heat for the season, schedule a professional tune-up for your furnace or boiler. Replace filters, check thermostats, and ensure vents and radiators are clear of obstructions. A well-maintained heating system runs more efficiently, which can lower your energy bills.
6. Winterize Outdoor Faucets and Hoses
Drain and disconnect garden hoses, and shut off exterior faucets to prevent frozen pipes. If you have sprinkler systems, have them professionally blown out before the first freeze. Insulating outdoor spigots with covers adds another layer of protection.
7. Check Weatherstripping and Caulking
Drafty windows and doors can drive up heating costs. Inspect weatherstripping around doors and windows, and replace any that are cracked or missing. Re-caulk around window frames, siding joints, and exterior trim to keep warm air in and cold air out.
8. Test Safety Devices
With furnaces running and fireplaces in use, fall is a good reminder to test your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms. Replace batteries and check expiration dates to ensure everything is in working order.
9. Prep Your Lawn and Garden
Give your lawn one last mow at a shorter height to discourage matting under snow. Rake leaves, aerate if needed, and apply fall fertilizer to strengthen grass roots for spring. Trim back perennials and cover sensitive plants before the first hard frost.
Preparing your home for fall doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By taking care of small tasks like sealing concrete with DRYLOK® Clear Sealer, cleaning gutters, and patching foundation cracks with DRYLOK® Fast Plug, you’re protecting your investment and ensuring comfort through the winter months. Combine those steps with other seasonal upkeep — like roof inspections, heating system maintenance, and lawn prep — and you’ll be ready to face whatever the season brings.
