• Make Things Last Longer

Following these steps, every fall not only makes winter more comfortable but also keeps your home in great shape for years to come. As your neighborhood handyman, I’m here to help you tackle these tasks easily so that when winter arrives, you can sit back and enjoy it—knowing you’ve got everything covered.

Here’s a breakdown of what to tackle this fall, why it matters, and the savings it brings.

1. Clear Out Your Gutters

Why it Matters: When leaves and debris clog your gutters, water can’t drain properly. This water can freeze and back up, causing roof leaks, ice dams, and even structural damage.
Savings Potential: Regularly cleaning your gutters can prevent costly repairs that can range from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand, depending on the damage.

How-To Tips:

• Start by scooping out leaves and debris with a trowel or gutter scoop.
• Rinse the gutters with a hose to ensure the water flows smoothly.
• While you’re up there, inspect your gutters for any sagging or damage.

2. Seal Windows and Doors

Why it Matters: Drafts around windows and doors let cold air in and your heating dollars out. Plus, sealing drafts helps maintain a cozy, consistent temperature in your home.
Savings Potential: Just by sealing up drafts, you could save up to 15% on heating costs this winter.

How-To Tips:

• Inspect windows and doors for gaps and drafts.
• Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal any openings.
• For extra efficiency, consider window film kits to add insulation.

3. Inspect and Clean the Furnace

Why it Matters: A clean, efficient furnace keeps your home warm without using extra energy. Dust and dirt build-up can lead to higher heating bills and might even cause breakdowns in the dead of winter.
Savings Potential: A well-maintained furnace operates 10–15% more efficiently, saving money on energy bills and extending the life of the unit.

How-To Tips:

• Change the furnace filter every three months or as recommended by the manufacturer.
• Schedule an annual inspection with a professional to make sure it’s in top shape.
• Vacuum around the furnace area to reduce dust build-up.

4. Winterize Your Plumbing

Why it Matters: Outdoor faucets and sprinkler systems can freeze and burst if not properly drained and covered, leading to flooding and costly repairs.
Savings Potential: Fixing a burst pipe can cost upwards of $1,000, while winterizing only takes a few minutes and minimal supplies.

How-To Tips:

• Disconnect and drain all outdoor hoses.
• Cover outdoor faucets with insulated covers or wraps.
• Drain your sprinkler system or call a professional for blow-out service if needed.

5. Seal Concrete and Repair Driveways

Why it Matters: Cracks in concrete driveways and sidewalks can widen during freeze-thaw cycles, making them bigger hazards come spring.
Savings Potential: Repairing small cracks costs around $100, but left untreated, they can turn into bigger, costlier repairs.

How-To Tips:

• Inspect concrete for cracks or chips, especially in high-traffic areas.
• Use a concrete sealant to fill any cracks and prevent further damage.

6. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Why it Matters: With the increased use of heating appliances in the winter, your home needs working smoke and CO detectors more than ever. They’re your first line of defense in case of an emergency.
Savings Potential: Staying safe is priceless, and testing these devices takes only a few seconds.

How-To Tips:

• Replace batteries if necessary.
• Push the “test” button to ensure each unit is working properly.
• Replace detectors every 7–10 years, or as recommended by the manufacturer.

7. Trim Trees and Bushes

Why it Matters: Overhanging branches can break under the weight of snow and ice, potentially damaging your roof, gutters, or even causing injuries.
Savings Potential: Trimming branches now prevents costly roof repairs and helps keep your property safe.

How-To Tips:

• Remove any dead branches near your roof or power lines.
• Trim back any branches that could touch your home, windows, or driveway.
• Consider calling a professional if you’re dealing with tall trees or thick branches.

8. Store Summer Tools and Prep Snow Gear

Why it Matters: Taking care of summer tools and getting winter tools ready helps them last longer and ensures you’re prepared for the first snowfall.
Savings Potential: Proper storage and maintenance can extend the life of your tools, saving you from replacement costs.

How-To Tips:

• Drain fuel from lawnmowers and clean them before storing.
• Sharpen snow shovels and test snow blowers to make sure they’re in working order.
• Store summer items in a dry, protected area.

Your Fall Prep, Done Right, Means More Peace of Mind

By investing a little time now, you can head into winter with the confidence that your home is protected, efficient, and ready for anything the cold brings. A few proactive steps in the fall add up to major savings in both time and money—leaving you more to spend on the things you enjoy. 

As your neighborhood handyman, I’m here to help make these tasks easy so you can skip the hassle and expense of last-minute repairs.