If you live in a climate that’s in the thick of fall, you need to start thinking about preparing your home for the coldest months of the year to help get you through winter without a hitch.

 

Here’s a quick list of tips and to-dos for home maintenance in the fall. This way, when the snow starts flying, you’ll be ready.

 

 

 

In late fall, home maintenance starts with raking leaves and ends with getting your fireplace ready for toasty nights while the cold wind blows outside.

 

 

If your trees tend to dump leaves ankle-deep all over your yard, you probably want to rake them before snow covers them up. Otherwise, you’ll get a soggy surprise come spring.

 

If you can, get the kids to help in exchange for a couple of jumps in the leaf piles.

 

 

Heating season is coming. To help your heater do the best job, clean or vacuum the dust from your heating vents (or radiators, or whatever set-up you have).

 

 

Keep your garden hoses in good condition for next season. Disconnect the hoses from exterior faucets, drain off water, then roll them up and store them. To prevent pipes from freezing, shut off the water supply to your outdoor faucets.

 

 

If you can, lug your outdoor table and chairs into storage over the winter to keep them ready for next year. If you don’t have storage space, use a waterproof cover for protection. The same goes for your grill.

 

 

What’s better than a cozy, crackling fire on a cold day? To make sure you’re ready to enjoy this luxury, get your chimney inspected and/or cleaned before you light up that first fire. Don’t forget to sweep out the fireplace itself for old ashes, and keep a stack of dry wood in a handy place.

 

 

Fall is the perfect time to trim the trees in your yard for dead branches and limbs. These can become hazards during bad weather, especially if they hang near or over your house. Get a professional to do the job if your trees are towering. If you can reach the branches with a ladder, you can also do it yourself with a hand saw or ask a person to spot you.

 

 

Getting your home ready for each season is essential for upkeep, not to mention your family’s safety. Check each task off your list, and you’ll enjoy the feeling that you’re well-prepared for whatever the winter brings.