As we enjoy the last warm (or unbearably hot) days of an Indiana summer, it’s easy to forget that autumn is just around the corner. Those beautiful changing leaves will soon bring cooler temperatures, more rainfall, and eventually, the harsh Midwestern winter. As a professional home inspector, I see firsthand how a little preventative maintenance now can save homeowners thousands of dollars and major headaches later.
Think of this as more than just a chore list; it’s a strategic plan to protect your biggest investment. Before you settle in with pumpkin spice and Colts football, take a weekend to give your home a thorough check-up. Here’s a detailed checklist of where to focus your efforts, straight from an inspector’s playbook.
1. Clean and Inspect Your Gutters & Downspouts
This is, without a doubt, the most critical task for fall prep. Your gutter system is your home’s primary defense against water damage. Once the leaves start falling, they can quickly clog the system, causing water to overflow. In an Indiana autumn, that water runs down your siding and pools around your foundation. In the winter, it creates destructive ice dams on your roof.
- What to do: Safely get on a ladder and clear all leaves and debris from the gutters. While you’re there, check that the gutters are securely attached to the house. Run water through them with a hose to check for leaks and ensure the downspouts are clear and directing water at least 3-6 feet away from your foundation.
2. Examine the Exterior and Seal the Gaps
Water is a home’s worst enemy. Small cracks and gaps in your home’s exterior can become major entry points for moisture, drafts, and pests trying to find a warm place for the winter. A careful walk around your property is time well spent.
- What to do: Look closely at the siding. Are there any cracked boards or gaps? Inspect the sealant around windows and doors. Is it cracked or peeling? Use a high-quality exterior caulk to seal these gaps. Check for any areas where the soil or mulch is touching your siding, as this can attract wood-destroying insects. Ensure the ground around your foundation slopes away from the house.
3. Service Your HVAC System
Your air conditioner has been working hard all summer. Before you switch it over to heating duty, it needs a little TLC. A clean and well-maintained HVAC system runs more efficiently, saves you money on energy bills, and lasts longer.
- What to do: The easiest and most important step is to replace your furnace filter. A clogged filter restricts airflow and makes the system work harder. Next, clear any leaves, weeds, or debris from around your outdoor air conditioning unit to ensure proper airflow. Finally, consider scheduling a professional tune-up with a qualified HVAC technician. They can perform a more thorough check and cleaning before their busy season starts.
4. Give Your Roof a Quick Look
You don’t need to get on your roof to get a sense of its condition. Small roof issues can lead to big interior leaks, so a quick visual inspection now can prevent a major disaster during a fall rainstorm.
- What to do: Using binoculars from the ground, safely scan the entire surface of your roof. Look for any shingles that are missing, cracked, or curling at the edges. Pay close attention to the flashing around the chimney, vents, and skylights. These are common failure points.
5. Test Your Home’s Safety Devices
With windows closing up for the season, it is absolutely critical to ensure your indoor safety devices are functioning correctly. These devices are your first line of defense against fire and carbon monoxide poisoning.
- What to do: Press the “test” button on every smoke detector and carbon monoxide (CO) detector in your house. The alarm should sound immediately. If it doesn’t, replace the batteries. If it still doesn’t work, replace the entire unit. Most detectors have a lifespan of 7-10 years; check the date on the back.
- Additionally: Press the “test” button on all your GFCI outlets (usually in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, outdoors and elsewhere). You should hear it “trip” which will stop power to it and any down-circuit outlets connected to it. Then just press the “reset” button on the same GFCI outlet to turn it back on. If nothing happens when you press “test” or if your reset button doesn’t work to restore power, you may have a faulty outlet that needs replaced by a qualified contractor. Better to know it’s unsafe than to keep using a dangerous circuit.
A little proactive effort in the late summer pays huge dividends all winter long. By taking care of these items now, you can rest easy knowing your home is safe, secure, and ready for whatever an Indiana fall and winter can throw at it.
Of course, the most comprehensive check-up for a home is a full, professional inspection. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just want a detailed assessment of your current property, contact Indy Home Inspection today. We’ll give you the complete picture and the peace of mind you deserve.
