Exterior:

Make sure gutters and downspouts are clear

When the leaves fall, they often land right on your roof and gutters. Clear gutters and downspouts of leaves or debris and check for any signs of damage. Clogged gutters or damaged downspouts can cause water damage by not properly diverting water away from your home. You don’t want to be dealing with a mold issue.

Inspect roof

Inspect your roof for missing shingles, cracks, or signs of damage. In New England it’s especially important to prepare your roof for holding heavy snow and prevent water from leaking inside. Consider having a professional roofer check for any potential issues.

Clean your chimney

If you have a fireplace or wood-burning stove, you’ll likely be using it a lot in the winter. Have your chimney cleaned to remove creosote buildup, which can be a fire hazard.

Seal any openings around windows or in siding

Inspect and re-caulk any gaps or cracks around windows, doors, and foundation to prevent drafts and water infiltration. Look for holes in your siding that could allow animals or bugs to take shelter in your house. Mice can fit through a hole as small as ¼ of an inch wide. They will be looking for a warm place to stay! If you’re wondering what are the best ways to make your home energy efficient, check out this article.

Winterize outdoor faucets

Disconnect and empty your garden hoses for storage. Cover outdoor faucets to prevent freezing and potential pipe damage. You can do this by wrapping the faucet with fabric or an old t-shirt (several layers if possible), then secure with a plastic bag as the final layer. Consider insulating any exposed pipes inside your house as well.