Must-Dos for a Chill Fall
September weather in the Midwest is unpredictable, fluctuating between scorching heat and frost on your windshield in a matter of days. While you enjoy those last few patio drinks (in a hoodie or a swimsuit), it's essential to prep your home before it's too late!
Here's your quick and easy homeowner's checklist for tackling fall and ensuring your home can handle the coming cold:
1. Inspect and Repair Walkways
Why:
Cracks can hide under snow or ice, turning into dangerous trip hazards for loved ones and guests, and worsening during Midwest freeze-thaw cycles.
How to do it:
Inspect your sidewalks, steps, patios, and driveways for any damage, such as cracks or loose pavers. Minor repairs can often be DIY projects by cleaning and filling them with concrete patch or epoxy. For uneven sections or significant damage, consider hiring a KC professional contractor.
Pro Tip:
If your walkway tends to get slick in winter, add non-slip texture or sealant.
2. Clean and Inspect Siding
Why:
Throughout the summer, siding accumulates grime, mildew, and even insects. Cleaning it now can help you spot problems, such as rot or cracked caulk, before winter arrives, preventing damage.
How to do it:
Use the camera on your phone, binoculars, or even a drone to inspect hard-to-reach spots. Wash with a soft brush and mild soap, then re-caulk any gaps, but leave the underside open so siding can expand and contract. Finish with a pressure wash; you can rent from a local hardware store for about $35 a day or hire a pro if you want to skip the hassle.
Pro Tip:
Pay extra attention to joints where boards meet, as fixing cracked caulk now helps keep out cold air and moisture during the winter months.
3. Check for Leaky Faucets
Why:
Leaks can freeze and turn into burst pipes. Even small drips waste water and can cause damage to cabinets or floors.
How to do it:
Turn faucets on and off, watching for drips, and don't forget to check outdoor spigots for leaks. Replace worn washers or o-rings as needed.
Pro Tip:
If you see leaks under the sink or can't stop the drip, call a local plumber before the issue worsens. Small leaks can become big problems once the cold weather hits.
4. Seal Drafty Windows
Why:
Drafty windows allow cold air to seep in and heat to escape, resulting in higher heating bills.
How to do it:
Check for drafts by running your hand along the frame or using a candle flame. Apply fresh caulk or add weatherstripping. If you notice fogging in double- or triple-pane windows, call a professional to reseal them, as this can indicate failed seals.
Pro Tip:
Check your window warranties before paying out of pocket; many warranties cover up to 10 years or more.
5. Sweep the Chimney
Why:
A blocked chimney is a household hazard. When you light that first cozy fire, built-up soot can release carbon monoxide back into your home and eventually ignite, causing a chimney fire.
How to do it:
Chimney sweeps aren't just Mary Poppins' characters! Hiring a local chimney sweep for an inspection and cleaning typically costs between $200 and $400.
Pro Tip:
Book early before everyone's scrambling for appointments, and ask for a camera scan. This extra feature helps spot hidden cracks or liner damage you can't see otherwise.
6. Replace HVAC Air Filters
Why:
Dirty filters make your furnace work harder, raising your energy bills and shortening the life of your system.
How to do it:
Check your filter size before shopping and replace it with a new one. Vacuum vent covers to clear out dust and pet hair. For a thorough tune-up, hire an HVAC professional to perform safety checks and cleaning.
Pro Tip:
Set a phone reminder to change your filters every 30 to 90 days, depending on how much you run the system and if you have pets.
7. Service Lawn Equipment
Why:
Leaving gas and grime in your mower or trimmer over the winter can damage the engine and cost you a significant amount next spring.
How to do it:
Change the oil and air filters, clean or replace spark plugs, sharpen or replace blades, and run premium gas with stabilizer before storing your mower.
Pro Tip:
If your equipment won't start or runs rough, take it to a small-engine shop now. You'll want your equipment ready for action once the spring green returns, so you don't have to wait in line for repairs.
8. Reseed Your Lawn
Why:
Cool-season grasses, such as fescue and bluegrass, perform best when seeded in early fall. Planting now ensures you'll have a thick, green lawn that keeps weeds at bay come spring.
How to do it:
Aerate compacted soil so that water and nutrients can penetrate deeply into the ground, then spread the seed and starter fertilizer evenly. Use straw or seed mats on slopes to prevent washout, and water daily or as needed for two to three weeks.
Pro Tip:
You want to make sure roots have time to establish before the first frost, so aim to overseed by mid-September at the latest.
9. Test Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors
Why:
Winter means constant heating throughout the home and an increased risk of carbon monoxide leaks. Dead batteries mean no warning in an emergency, so it's critical to ensure these sensors are adequately charged.
How to do it:
Press the test button on each unit and replace the batteries if necessary. Replace any detectors that are over 7 to 10 years old.
Pro Tip:
This small task can be easy to overlook, but it can have severe consequences if it's missed. Make a tradition of checking these detectors on Labor Day weekend every year so you don't forget!
Bonus Midwest Storm Prep
Why:
September can bring late-season storms or an early freeze, so it's better to be prepared once the weather shifts.
How to do it:
Inspect your roof for missing or damaged shingles (use your phone camera or binoculars for a higher look) and check the attic for leaks or damp spots. Test your sump pump by pouring water into the pit to ensure it activates.
Pro Tip:
Make sure you're covered: Review and update your homeowners insurance now before storm season gets wild.
Final Thoughts: September Is Your Reset Button
September in the Midwest is prime time to get ahead of the cold. Tackling these chores now while the weather is still decent means you can relax in warmth and safety once it turns chilly.
Need help finding reliable local professionals? I love helping Midwest homeowners protect their investments, and would be happy to share my list of trusted Kansas City resources! Call me today at 816-328-2887!
