Fall Home Maintenance Checklist for Greater Cleveland

As temperatures start to dip in Greater Cleveland, a little preventative maintenance can save you from costly repairs once winter sets in. Here’s a focused checklist we complete for many clients each fall.

Exterior sealing and caulking

Inspect gaps around windows and trim. Caulk any separations to keep cold air and moisture out and lower energy bills.

Gutters and downspouts

Leaves and debris clog gutters quickly. Clean them thoroughly and confirm downspouts carry water at least 5 feet away from the foundation. Install gutter guards where tree cover is heavy.

Decks and railings

Wood absorbs moisture in fall. If water no longer beads on the surface, it’s time to re‑coat. We often use Minwax® Helmsman® for durable protection on exterior wood.

Furnace filter and registers

Replace filters and vacuum dust from registers and returns. Good airflow improves efficiency and comfort. If you haven’t had a furnace tune‑up recently, schedule one before the first freeze.

Safety checks

• Test smoke and CO detectors; replace batteries.
• Confirm GFCI outlets trip/reset correctly.
• Inspect handrails and steps for loose fasteners.

A few hours of fall prep will keep your home comfortable and safe all winter. Need help? Request an estimate and we’ll build a plan that fits your home.