As the summer winds down, it’s the perfect time to give your home some extra attention before the cooler weather sets in. At Main Street Homes, we believe that a little preventative maintenance now can save you time, money and stress later, and it also keeps your home comfortable and energy-efficient all year long. 

Read on for the ultimate end -of-summer home maintenance checklist to help you transition smoothly into fall. 

1. Inspect the Roof and Siding

Your home’s exterior takes the brunt of summer sun, storms and wind, so do a visual inspection for:

• Loose or missing shingles
• Damaged siding
• Areas of mold, mildew or rot

Catching small issues now can prevent costly repairs after the winter weather sets in. 

2. Inspect and Clean Gutters

Falling leaves and late-summer storms can quickly clog your gutters, and blocked gutters can cause water damage to your roof, siding and foundation. Before fall, make sure to:

• Remove leaves, sticks and debris
• Flush gutters with a hose to check for proper drainage
• Inspect for sagging sections or loose brackets

3. Refresh Your Landscaping

Late summer is the perfect time to give your yard a final tidy-up before the season officially changes. Focus on:

• Trimming overgrown trees and shrubs away from your home
• Pulling weeds and adding mulch to protect plant roots
• Aerating and seeding your lawn for healthy spring growth

This helps your landscaping look fresh now and continue to thrive next year. 

4. Store Summer Equipment and Prepare Fall Tools

Before the first frost, make sure to clean and store summer items like:

• Patio furniture
• Grills
• Garden hoses

At the same time, get some of your fall tools ready. Check that your rake, leaf blower and snow shovel are in working order so you’re ready for the months ahead. 

5. Check Weatherstripping and Seals

Drafts can increase your heating costs once fall arrives, so inspect weatherstripping around windows and doors for cracks or gaps, and replace it if needed. Don’t forget to check:

• Garage door seals
• Attic and basement entry points
• Any area where pests could enter

6. Schedule an HVAC Tune-Up

Your cooling system has worked hard all summer. Before the temperatures drop, schedule a professional HVAC inspection to:

• Clean or replace air filters
• Check for leaks or blockages
• Ensure your furnace is ready for colder weather

A well-maintained system runs more efficiently, which can help lower energy bills and extend the lifespan of your equipment.

7. Test Safety Devices

Changing seasons is a good reminder to make sure that all of your safety systems are working properly. Test and replace batteries in:

• Smoke detectors
• Carbon monoxide detectors
• Home security systems

Final Tip: Make Home Maintenance a Seasonal Habit

By tackling this end-of-summer checklist each year, you can keep your home in top condition and avoid last-minute problems. If you’re ready to start your next chapter in a brand-new home in Central Virginia, our team at Main Street Homes is ready to help you take the next step. Give us a call at (804) 979-2954 or fill out our online form today for more information.