Pumpkin spice latte in hand, draped in your favorite flannel, the cinnamon smell of a burning candle in the air, football on the TV. Wait for it….it must be our favorite season! Fall!!

As the crisp fall air settles (finally!) in St. Louis, it’s the perfect time to ensure your home is ready for the changing season. From prepping your heating system to protecting outdoor spaces from the upcoming frost, a little preparation now can save you time, money, and hassle later.

To make your life easier, we’ve compiled a comprehensive fall home maintenance checklist that covers all the essentials. Plus, our knowledgeable team at Handyman Hardware has recommended some of their favorite products to help you tackle each task with confidence. Don't forget to grab our checklist at the end of the blog!

1. Inspect and Clean Gutters

Falling leaves are beautiful but can quickly clog gutters, leading to water damage or foundation issues. Clear out leaves and debris regularly to avoid costly problems later.

Product Recommendation:

• Gutter Guards—Jason from our Lindbergh location suggests installing gutter guards to keep leaves out and reduce maintenance for a long-term solution.

2. Check for Roof Damage

A quick check of your roof can prevent costly leaks during the winter months. Promise you’ll be careful while you’re up there! You’ll want to look for missing or broken shingles, cracks, or other damage. If your roof has seen better days, now’s the time to take action.

Product Recommendation:

• Roof Patch and Sealant–Paul from our Washington store suggests keeping a can of patch and sealant on hand. This easy-to-apply solution can quickly seal small leaks or cracks, saving you from more extensive repairs later.

3. Seal Windows and Doors

“Brrrrr! Where is that chill coming from?” Have you ever said this? Drafts from poorly sealed windows and doors can increase your heating bills and make your home less comfortable as temperatures drop. Inspect all windows and doors for leaks and seal any gaps with caulk or weatherstripping.

Product Recommendation:

• Weatherproofing Caulk–Dan from our Oakville location recommends a high-quality caulk that can withstand the elements and keep your home cozy all winter.

4. Prepare Your Heating System

Whether it’s a “false fall” or “real fall,” don’t wait for that first cold night to check your heating system. A professional can inspect your system to ensure it’s working efficiently, and you can easily replace your furnace filters if needed. Regular maintenance keeps your system running smoothly and saves you money on your energy bills.

Product Recommendation:

• Furnace Filters–Gene from Oakville swears by these long-lasting filters to keep your HVAC system running efficiently. Be sure to have a few on hand for easy replacements throughout the season.

5. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Do you and your partner play rock-paper-scissors on whose turn to change the fire alarm battery? No matter whose turn it is to get up on the ladder, it is crucial to check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors annually. Ensure batteries are fresh and that each unit is functioning correctly.

Product Recommendation:

• Smoke & CO Detector Combo–Jeff from Lindbergh advises replacing old detectors with a combo unit for added safety. These devices detect smoke and carbon monoxide, providing peace of mind throughout the colder months.

6. Lawn Care and Winterizing Your Garden

As fall sets in, it's time to give your lawn and garden some TLC. Rake leaves regularly, mow your lawn one last time (Does this make anyone else kind of sad? Raising our hand over here!), and apply a fall fertilizer to help your grass store nutrients for the winter. If you have a garden, cover any delicate plants and shut off outdoor faucets to avoid freezing pipes.

Product Recommendation:

• Gro-Fine Fall Weed and Feed–Karen from Oakville loves this fall fertilizer that nourishes your lawn through the winter and helps it bounce back strong in the spring.

7. Prepare Your Outdoor Spaces

Right now, the weather is perfect for lounging on your patio, grilling with the family, and playing catch with the kids. Ahhhh, it’s football season. Soak it up now, but before the cold weather sets in, you’ll want to inspect your deck, patio, and outdoor furniture.

Clean and store furniture that won’t be used, and cover grills or other outdoor equipment to protect them from the elements. If you have a deck, check for loose boards or nails that need repair.

Product Recommendation:

• Outdoor Furniture Covers - Keep your outdoor furniture safe from rain, snow, and frost with these heavy-duty covers recommended by Larry from Oakville. This chair cover's tough, stylish fabric protects against the elements and won't crack in cold weather. An elastic cord in the bottom hem provides a fast and custom fit.

8. Clean and Store Lawn Equipment

We made it! The last item on your fall maintenance checklist. Now’s the time to clean and store your lawn equipment. Empty fuel from gas-powered tools like lawnmowers and trimmers, clean the blades and check for any damage. Proper storage will ensure your equipment is ready when spring rolls around.

Product Recommendation:

Mechanic In a Bottle Fuel Stabilizer–Ron from our Washington location recommends using a fuel stabilizer for gas-powered equipment. It prevents fuel degradation during storage and keeps your tools in shape for the next season.

Get Your Home Ready for Winter

A little bit of fall maintenance goes a long way in protecting your home and keeping it running smoothly during the winter months. By tackling these tasks now, you’ll avoid problems later and ensure your home is cozy and efficient. Our team at Handyman Hardware is here to help with expert advice and top-quality products. Be sure to visit one of our three St. Louis locations for all your fall home maintenance needs!

Your Fall Home Maintenance Checklist!