Expert Advice from a Home Inspector’s Perspective
Minnesota’s beautiful fall is the perfect time to prepare your home for the tough winter months ahead. With icy winds and heavy snowfall, your property will face challenges. Taking proactive maintenance steps now can save you time, money, and headaches when temperatures drop. HomePro Inspections provides insights from its home inspection professionals, sharing essential fall maintenance tips to keep your Minnesota home safe, warm, and energy-efficient throughout winter.
Check Roof Condition
Before the first snowfall, visually inspect your roof. Look for damaged, missing, or curling shingles, as these can allow water infiltration and lead to costly repairs. Also, examine the flashing around chimneys and vents, as well as the attic, for signs of leaks or moisture. Know your limits. Don't get on your roof if it is too steep, too high, or if you are uncomfortable with ladders and heights. Home inspectors often evaluate roofs from the ground or the eaves on a ladder if it is unsafe to walk on the roof.
Inspect and Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Leaves and debris can quickly clog gutters and downspouts, leading to water backup and the formation of ice dams—a common problem during Minnesota winters. Home inspectors often discover water damage caused by neglected gutters during inspections. Keep your gutters and downspouts clear, check for leaks or sagging, and ensure water drains away from the foundation. Again, be cautious when using ladders.
Seal Around Windows and Doors
Drafts can make your home uncomfortable and increase heating costs. Home inspectors often suggest inspecting for gaps and worn weatherstripping around windows and doors. Use caulk or foam sealant to fill cracks, and replace weatherstripping as needed. This simple maintenance can significantly boost energy efficiency.
Inspect Attic and Basement Insulation
Proper insulation helps keep heat in and cold out. Check your attic and basement to ensure there’s enough insulation depth and coverage—areas where home inspectors often find issues. Add insulation where needed to meet local guidelines and cut energy loss.
Heating System Maintenance
Schedule professional inspection and maintenance for your furnace, boiler, or heat pump. Replace or clean filters, check for proper operation, and ensure vents and chimneys are clear of obstructions. A home inspector will identify any signs of wear or malfunction, but proper and timely preventive maintenance can keep your system running smoothly during all seasons.
Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
With windows closed and heating systems on, it is vitally important to ensure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly. Home inspectors always check these devices during a standard home inspection. Unless the detector manufacturer states otherwise, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be tested monthly and have their battery replaced at least once a year. Smoke detectors should be replaced every ten years, while carbon monoxide detectors should be replaced every five to seven years.
Examine Your Home’s Exterior
Walk around your property and look for cracks in the foundation, loose siding, or peeling paint. These issues can allow moisture to seep in, freeze, and cause further damage. Make repairs before winter arrives—this is a typical recommendation after a home inspection.
Maintenance for Winterize Outdoor Plumbing
Frozen pipes are a common winter woe in Minnesota. Disconnect garden hoses, drain outdoor faucets, and shut off water supply lines to exterior spigots. If you have a sprinkler system, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to winterize it properly.
Trim Trees and Remove Dead Branches
Heavy snow and ice can cause overhanging branches to break, damaging your home or power lines. As part of your fall maintenance, trim back trees and remove dead limbs to help prevent winter storm damage. If any branches are near overhead power lines, it is best to contact your utility company.
Prepare for Emergencies
Stock up on winter essentials like salt, sand, and snow shovels. Make sure your emergency kits include flashlights, batteries, water, and blankets. Minnesota winters can be unpredictable, so being prepared is a crucial part of home maintenance.
Summary
Many fall maintenance tasks can be done yourself, but if you don't have the necessary skills, it is advised to hire a professional. Professionals may uncover hidden issues and provide peace of mind before winter arrives. Their expert eye can help you prioritize repairs and ensure your home is ready for whatever the season brings.
By following these fall maintenance tips, you can safeguard your Minnesota home, increase comfort, and avoid costly repairs. Happy fall—and stay warm this winter!
At HomePro Inspections, we are trained to look for these issues when inspecting a home. Any problems are documented and recommended for resolution by a qualified professional.
Visit our website to learn more or to schedule your home inspection in the Rochester, Owatonna, and Faribault, MN areas. You can contact us today at (507) 202-8942, email us, or use our online “Schedule Now” feature to schedule an appointment.