As many Northern Nevada homeowners know, the outside of your home is just as important to maintain as the inside. Keeping up with exterior maintenance helps maintain property value, improve safety, and boost curb appeal. Take advantage of the cool fall weather and prepare your home for the colder months ahead by utilizing our exterior home maintenance checklist.
1. Stain and Protect Your Deck
Fall is the perfect time to stain and seal your deck to protect it from harsh winter weather. Sealing your deck may sound like a purely cosmetic upgrade, but in addition to beautifying your outdoor space, it also extends the life of the wood. Colder months can cause untreated wood to crack and deteriorate, so make sure to apply a high-quality sealer that can withstand snow and rain. Wondering when the best time of year is to stain a deck? Aim to treat your deck before temperatures drop below 50°F.
2. Get Your Roof and Gutters Checked
Your roof and gutters are your first line of defense against rain, snow, and ice. Before the first storm hits, inspect your roof for any damaged shingles or leaks. Clean out your gutters to prevent water damage or ice dams from forming in the winter. Clogged gutters can lead to expensive repairs, so consider installing gutter guards to reduce future maintenance. This exterior home care step can save you a headache when freezing temperatures arrive.
3. Spruce Up Your Yard
As part of your exterior home maintenance, don’t forget about yard winterization. Trim trees and prune bushes, rake leaves, and clear any debris that could become a safety hazard in the winter months. Not only will this improve curb appeal, but it also prevents fallen branches or overgrown shrubs from damaging your home or cars in high winds or snowstorms. Taking these steps now will also save you time and effort when spring arrives, ensuring your yard is healthy and ready to thrive.
4. Conduct a Safety Sweep
Fall is the time to inspect safety devices like fire extinguishers and smoke detectors. Check that batteries are fresh, and extinguishers are accessible. Additionally, you’ll want to winterize your pipes to prevent them from freezing. Investing in pipe insulation or covers is an inexpensive way to avoid costly repairs down the line. Covering outdoor faucets and sprinkler systems with insulated covers will protect them from frost damage and guarantee your home’s plumbing remains safe and functional all winter long.
Taking care of your home’s exterior maintains its appearance, but more importantly, keeps your family safe and preserves your investment. By following this exterior home maintenance checklist, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home is ready for whatever fall and winter bring. Prioritize these tasks now, and you’ll be set for the season ahead!
Contact a Dickson agent today for expert advice on maintaining your property and keeping it in top shape all year round.
