Fall Home Maintenance Checklist: 9 Expert Tips to Protect Your Property Before Winter Hits
When the leaves start to change, it’s not just sweater weather—it’s winter prep time for your home. Fall is your last, best opportunity to button up your property before snow, ice, and freezing temps arrive.
The home maintenance experts at Ike MN Construction recommend taking a proactive approach now to avoid costly repairs (and bitter regrets) later.
Here’s your essential fall checklist, tailor-made for Minnesota homes.
1. Inspect Your Roof Before the Snow Flies
Small problems can become major leaks under heavy snow. Check for:
- Missing or curled shingles
- Soft spots or sagging areas
- Cracked flashing around chimneys and vents
Pro tip: If you’re unsure, schedule a professional inspection. Ike MN Construction offers roofing checks to ensure you’re winter-ready.
2. Clean and Secure Gutters and Downspouts
Clogged gutters lead to ice dams, which cause water to back up under shingles. This can result in:
- Interior leaks
- Damaged insulation
- Rotted wood
Make sure all downspouts direct water at least 5 feet away from your foundation.
3. Seal Up Air Leaks Around Windows and Doors
Drafty windows = higher heating bills. Use:
- Caulk for stationary gaps
- Weatherstripping for movable joints
- Foam sealant for larger cracks
Bonus benefit: A tighter seal keeps pests out, too.
4. Check Siding and Exterior Trim for Gaps or Rot
Minnesota winters are brutal on siding, especially where moisture enters. Walk the perimeter of your home to look for:
- Cracks in vinyl or fiber cement
- Rot in wood trim
- Loose fascia or soffits
The pros at Ike MN can replace compromised siding or add metal trim caps to protect exposed edges.
5. Test and Service Heating Systems
Don’t wait for the first cold snap. Schedule HVAC servicing to:
- Clean and inspect the furnace
- Replace filters
- Test thermostats
- Check carbon monoxide levels
Heating issues are one of the most common emergency repairs during fall and early winter.
6. Drain Outdoor Faucets and Irrigation Systems
Water expands as it freezes—and that’s a surefire way to burst pipes. Disconnect hoses, shut off exterior water valves, and drain any irrigation lines.
Ike MN Tip: Install frost-proof spigots if you haven’t already.
7. Touch Up Exterior Paint and Sealants
Paint isn’t just for looks—it’s a weather barrier. Areas with peeling or bubbling paint should be scraped and repainted with cold-weather formulas.
Don’t forget to reseal:
- Window trim
- Thresholds
- Deck posts
Fall is the last window for paint to cure properly before temps drop below 50°F.
8. Evaluate Driveways and Sidewalks
Cracks in concrete may seem harmless, but water that seeps in will freeze and expand, causing larger splits. Seal cracks in:
- Concrete flatwork
- Garage floors
- Stamped patios
For significant damage, the concrete specialists at Ike MN Construction offer winter-ready flatwork repairs and resealing services.
9. Prepare for Snow Before It Arrives
Last but not least—get your snow game ready:
- Service your snow blower
- Stock up on eco-friendly de-icer
- Install snow guards on metal roofs to prevent avalanches
Clear pathways and driveways now to prevent accidents when the snow starts falling.
Bonus Tip: Schedule Work Early
Fall is a busy season for contractors, especially in cold-weather states like Minnesota. If you need exterior work done—roofing, siding, concrete, or trim repairs—get on a schedule before contractors book up or snow makes access difficult.
Stay Ahead of the Storm with Trusted Local Help
Preventative maintenance is all about timing. Tackle issues now, and you’ll enjoy peace of mind all winter long. The home maintenance experts at Ike MN Construction are ready to help you prep your property with fast, professional service across roofing, siding, concrete, and more.
