There’s something about Fall in Iowa that makes us want to slow down. The mornings get crisp, the leaves put on a spectacular show, and suddenly we’re reaching for sweaters and pumpkin everything. But while we’re enjoying the season, our homes are quietly getting ready for what comes next: an Iowa Winter.
The Fall season is your chance to prepare your home for incoming freezing temperatures, snow, ice and Winter storms. A little attention now can prevent some very unwelcome (and possibly expensive) surprises later.
Take a walk around your home and start by looking up. Your roof may not need replacing, but little details are important. Missing, cracked or damaged shingles can become a much bigger problem when they’re exposed to wind and moisture. Catching a problem now is much easier (and less expensive) than discovering a ceiling stain in January.
Also, while you or a professional is on your roof, don’t forget about the gutters. Those beautiful Fall leaves eventually have to go somewhere, and your gutters are not an ideal location. Clean gutters and properly directed downspouts help move water away from the foundation and prevent it from pooling near your home. When temperatures begin bouncing between freezing and thawing, excess moisture can create even more opportunities for damage.
That same principle applies around the rest of the house. Take a look at windows, doors and exterior areas where small gaps or cracks may have developed. Sealing those openings keeps chilled air outside, helps your heating system work more efficiently and can keep your energy bills from getting a little too adventurous. It’s also a good time to trim tree branches that could become a problem during an Iowa ice or wind storm.
Once the outside is ready, turn your attention indoors. Your furnace is about to become one of the hardest-working members of the household, so make sure it’s ready for the job. A seasonal service and fresh filter can help it operate efficiently and reduce the likelihood of an inconvenient breakdown when the temperature is well below freezing. While you’re thinking about staying warm, if you have a fireplace, have it inspected and cleaned before lighting that first cozy fire of the season.
Finally, don’t overlook the things you may not think about until they become a problem.
Disconnect and drain outdoor faucets and irrigation systems so freezing water doesn’t damage pipes. Test your sump pump before excess precipitation puts it to work. A few minutes spent checking these systems now can save you from discovering bigger problems later.
Fall maintenance may not be as exciting as football, bonfires or a Saturday trip to the apple orchard, but think of it as your home’s preseason training. A little preparation now can help protect your investment, prevent costly repairs and make the Winter months a whole lot easier. Because when an Iowa Winter comes knocking, it’s much nicer to answer from inside a home that’s ready for it.
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