Fall is here, and the mild temperatures create the perfect climate for home improvement! With the oppressive heat of summer gone, now is an optimal time to have maintenance done on your home to keep everything running in top shape for the upcoming winter. With so many things on your mind, you might be wondering where to start. Well, we got you covered! We have a checklist of essential home maintenance projects for the fall, including installation of gutter guards, roof and foundation inspections, driveway and sidewalk crack repairs, pest control treatments and wildlife exclusions.
Get Gutter Guards Installed
Getting gutter guards installed is a wise investment for homeowners looking to protect their homes and maintain their gutter systems effectively. These guards, typically made of wire mesh, serve as a barrier against debris like leaves, twigs, and more, preventing them from clogging the gutters. By preventing blockages, gutter guards ensure that rainwater can flow freely through the gutters and downspouts, preventing costly water damage to your home’s foundation, roof, and siding. Gutter guards can also prevent the formation of ice dams, when water gets underneath roof shingles and refreezes. Additionally, gutter guards reduce the need for frequent gutter cleaning, saving homeowners time and effort on maintenance tasks. Getting the professionals from Summit Environmental Solutions to install gutter guards is a practical and long-term solution that enhances the functionality and durability of your home’s gutter system while minimizing the hassle of regular upkeep.
Repair Any Sidewalk or Driveway Cracks
Addressing sidewalk and driveway cracks during the fall is a proactive and essential maintenance step for homeowners. With the cooler temperatures of autumn, it becomes an ideal time to repair these cracks. Cracks in concrete and asphalt tend to expand during the winter due to freezing and thawing cycles, which can lead to more extensive damage. By fixing them in the fall, you not only prevent the cracks from worsening but also enhance the safety and aesthetics of your property. Timely repairs can prevent tripping hazards, maintain curb appeal, and prolong the life of your pavement, saving you from more costly repairs in the future. So, taking action during the fall ensures that your sidewalks and driveways remain in good condition throughout the harsher winter months and beyond.
Have A Roof Inspection Done
Having a roof inspection done in the fall is a prudent and strategic decision for homeowners. As the season transitions from summer to winter, it’s an ideal time to assess the health of your roof. Fall inspections can identify any damage or wear and tear that might have occurred during the summer storms and prepare your roof for the challenges of winter weather, such as heavy rains, snow, and ice. Detecting issues like loose or missing shingles or potential leaks early on can prevent costly water damage and structural problems down the line. Roof inspections can also find any weaknesses with ridge vents that will also often fail during the winter, and can let precipitation into your attic. By addressing these concerns in the fall, you can make necessary repairs or improvements while the weather is still favorable, ensuring your roof’s durability and the safety and comfort of your home throughout the colder months.
Pest Control Treatments
Pest control treatments in the fall are crucial for maintaining a pest-free home during the cooler months. As temperatures drop, many pests, including rodents and insects, seek shelter indoors to escape the cold. Implementing pest control measures in the fall can create a protective barrier around your home, preventing infestations before they start. Professionals can conduct comprehensive inspections, identify vulnerable areas, and apply targeted treatments, such as sealing cracks and crevices, using baits, or applying insecticides as needed. This proactive approach not only safeguards your property from unwanted intruders but also contributes to a healthier and more comfortable living environment throughout the fall and winter, reducing the risk of property damage and potential health concerns associated with pests.
Fall is also the dawn of rodent season. Rodent season is when pests like rats and mice will begin invading homes to find a safe, warm place to spend the winter. These rodents will often nest in your attic and crawl space, and even sometimes within your walls. Rats and mice can also be seen raiding kitchens during the night, going after any food that is not sealed and secure. Rodents especially prefer dry, prepackaged food like dog kibble, chips, crackers, cookies, etc. These pests will often leave behind their droppings, which can contaminate food supplies, spread illness and soil insulation. Rodent teeth also never stop growing, so they will need to gnaw on anything they find, including wooden structures and wires in your home. A proper pest control inspection in the fall can find any potential entry points for the rodents, and preventative treatments can help prevent rats and mice from settling down in your home.
Check Your Foundation
Checking your foundation during the fall is a critical step in maintaining the structural integrity of your home. As the weather transitions from warm to cold, the soil around your foundation can expand and contract, potentially leading to shifts or cracks in the foundation itself. Identifying any issues during the fall allows you to address them before they worsen, especially with the approaching winter, when freezing and thawing cycles can exacerbate existing problems. Inspecting your foundation in the fall can reveal signs of settling, cracks, or water damage, giving you the opportunity to repair any issues promptly. By taking this proactive approach, you can ensure that your home remains stable and protected from the harsh elements and potential water infiltration, preserving the overall value and safety of your property.
Wildlife Inspection
Another important item on any homeowner’s checklist for fall home maintenance is to have a good wildlife inspection done for their home. As the weather cools down, many wildlife species begin seeking a warm, safe shelter that can protect them from the elements as well as predators. Squirrels, raccoons, bats, and other critters may attempt to enter your attic, crawl spaces, or even your walls in search of a cozy refuge for the winter. Calling a professional wildlife removal company like Summit Environmental Solutions to conduct a fall wildlife inspection allows you to identify potential points of entry and signs of infestation, such as droppings, nesting materials, or chewed wiring. Addressing these issues early can prevent the costly structural damage and health hazards associated with wildlife infestations. Moreover, it’s a humane approach as well, ensuring that wildlife can find suitable shelter without invading your living spaces. Overall, a fall wildlife inspection is a proactive measure that keeps your home secure, comfortable, and free from unwanted guests during the colder months. Critter Authority offers wildlife inspections, roof inspections, pest control treatments, gutter guards and more to help you prepare your home for the winter. Contact us today for a FREE estimate at (804) 492-2804 or fill out a contact form.