Fall Maintenance

Dear Friend,

Now that the leaves are falling, and rain is on its way its time to use the last days of sunshine to get our homes ready for fall and winter. Some exterior tasks will be very difficult to undertake once the days get shorter and rainfall begins. Here’s a list of outdoor maintenance items.

If you need a service provider to help with your tasks just let me know. I love passing on the names of great people.

Fall Outdoor Maintenance Checklist

• Drain hoses and put them away.
• Apply frost cover to all outside faucets.
• Drain the sprinkler system. Have them professionally blown out.
• Check foundation vent screens and window wells.
• Move dirt and mulch away from siding allowing 6” clearance.
• Plant for spring. Trees, shrubs and perennials like the water and cool temps to develop a good root system. Also, plant bulbs (note where you planted them).
• Trim branches and check for ‘widow makers” (loose limbs) that could fall during the upcoming winds.
• Make a mulch pile using grass clippings and leaves for use in spring.
• Clean off the roof.
• Remove loose moss gently (no pressure washing)
• Apply moss killer
• Check for loose shingles
• Clean gutters
• Check chimney for blockage and birds’ nests.
• Check downspouts and assure water drains away from house.
• Inspect siding for missing or failing caulk around doors and windows.
• Winterize lawn mower and put away.
• Clean and stow outdoor furniture.
• Aerate, fertilize and overseed lawn.
• Clean outdoor grill and cover.