5 Essential Fall Home Maintenance Tasks Every Chicago Homeowner Should Do Before Winter

Chicago just experienced one of the warmest Octobers on record, but don't let that fool you. Cold weather is coming fast, and the window for outdoor home maintenance is quickly closing. Whether you're preparing to sell your home, just bought a property, or are a long-time homeowner, now is the time to take care of a few essential tasks that will help protect your investment through the winter.

Fall home maintenance is especially important in the Midwest, where freezing temperatures and snowstorms can lead to costly damage if you're not prepared. Below is a list of 5 must-do home maintenance projects to tackle now, before it's too late.

1. Fall Home Maintenance: Prune Trees and Shrubs

Overgrown trees and large shrubs may look harmless now, but when Chicago's winter storms roll in, heavy snow and ice can cause branches to snap and damage your roof, siding, or vehicles. Pruning trees in the fall not only keeps your home safe, but also makes for a neater-looking yard, which can boost curb appeal if you're planning to sell. Bonus: Taking care of this home maintenance task now means less work (and fewer hazards) when spring arrives.

2. Fall Home Maintenance: Check Your Furnace Before It's Too Late

It's much easier to deal with a furnace issue now than in the middle of a snowstorm. One of the most overlooked home maintenance tasks is changing the furnace filter, this should be done every 3 months. A dirty filter restricts airflow and forces your system to work harder, which can shorten its lifespan. Better yet, consider scheduling a professional HVAC inspection. If you're buying or selling a home, having proof of regular HVAC home maintenance can be a great selling point or negotiation tool.

3. Fall Home Maintenance: Remove and Drain Garden Hoses

It seems small, but forgetting this one can lead to a cracked spigot or burst pipe. Before the first freeze, detach your garden hoses and drain out all remaining water. Storing them properly extends their life and prevents potential water damage. If you're preparing your home for sale, a simple sign of well-kept home maintenance like this reassures buyers that the property has been cared for.

4. Fall Home Maintenance: Seal Air Leaks and Insulate Wisely

Cold drafts sneaking in? Now is the perfect time to grab a can of spray foam (like Great Stuff) or caulk and seal up gaps around windows, doors, and vents. Not only does this home maintenance step improve comfort, but it can also lower heating bills significantly. Whether you're living in your home or prepping it for the market, sealing leaks shows energy efficiency and good upkeep, two major pluses for potential buyers.

5. Fall Home Maintenance: Drain Your Sprinkler System

If your home has an underground sprinkler system, make sure it's properly winterized. Frozen lines can cause expensive damage to the system, and to your yard or foundation. Blowing out the lines and shutting it down for the season is a crucial home maintenance step that can save you hundreds, even thousands, in spring repairs. If you're a seller, showcasing this type of preventative care can be a subtle but impactful selling point.

Final Thoughts:

Homeowners who stay ahead of seasonal home maintenance help preserve the value of their property and avoid last-minute emergencies. If you're planning to sell your home, these tasks not only protect your home, but show buyers that your property is move-in ready. And if you're a buyer, knowing what to look for in home maintenance history can help you choose a property that won't bring surprise costs.

Need help preparing your home for sale or looking to buy a home that's been well cared for? Direct Property Buyer can guide you through every step, before the snow falls.