As we ease out of summer and head into the cooler months, it's the perfect time to give your home a little seasonal attention. Prepping early helps you avoid headaches later—like surprise leaks, chilly drafts, or frozen pipes. Here are five homeowner-friendly tips to help your home handle whatever fall and winter bring.
1. Stop Drafts Before They Start
Cold air has a sneaky way of creeping in through the tiniest cracks. Take a walk around your home and feel for air movement near doors and windows. If you notice a draft, apply fresh caulking or replace old weather stripping. Outlets on exterior walls can also let in cold air, so consider foam outlet sealers for a simple fix.
2. Clean Out Those Gutters
When leaves pile up in your gutters, rainwater can back up and overflow—causing roof damage or leaks near the foundation. A good cleaning before heavy rains begin will help protect your home from water damage. While you're at it, check all downspouts that are pointing away from the house.
3. Get Your Heating System and Fireplace Checked
You don't want to discover a broken furnace on the first cold night. Schedule a professional to inspect and tune up your heating system. It's also a smart idea to test your thermostat and change the air filter. Planning to use the fireplace? Be sure the chimney is cleaned and in good shape for safe use.
4. Give Pipes and the Water Heater a Little Extra Care
While we don't get deep freezes often here in Walnut Creek, it's still smart to insulate any exposed pipes—especially in unheated areas like garages or crawl spaces. Occasional cold snaps can cause damage if pipes aren't protected. Outdoor faucets should also be disconnected and covered once overnight temperatures start dropping. Add a blanket wrap for your water heater, making it a year-round energy saver, not just for winter.
5. Prep the Yard and Outdoor Areas
Cut back overhanging branches near your home, especially if they look weak or dead. Store patio furniture, garden hoses, and other outdoor items that won't withstand bad weather. It's also a good idea to organize your shed or garage now—before things get too cold or rainy to want to deal with it.
Need a Hand?
If your to-do list is growing and time is short, Mr. Handyman of Walnut Creek & San Ramon Valley can help. We handle everything from gutter cleaning and caulking to weatherproofing and fall maintenance. Our team is local, reliable, and ready to get your home set for the season.
Call (925) 257-4593 to schedule your service—or visit Mrhandyman.com
"You don't want to discover a broken furnace on the first cold night. Schedule a professional to inspect and tune up your heating system."