It’s hard to believe, but we’re already into the fall season! The kids are back at school! Halloween and the holiday seasons are rapidly approaching! Don’t get caught by surprise.

Take advantage of the still moderate weather to do some home maintenance tasks. Tuck the house in before winter sets in! Start with a walk around the foundation.

Check for cracks, and caulk where needed, particularly where masonry meets siding, around windows and doors, and where pipes or wires enter the house. Moving higher, check window screens for damage and install storm windows. Weather strip around doors to keep out drafts. Make sure the seal with the ground is tight.

Check gutters for clogs and clean out the downspouts. Flush them with water, inspect joints and tighten brackets. Don’t let a clog cause an ice dam that destroys the gutter integrity.

Head from the gutters to the roof. Check for loose or broken shingles, damaged flashing, moss, and rust. Most cleanup and repairs are simple. They are much easier to complete when temperatures are still mild.

Follow up next with a quick deck check. Sprinkle water all over the surface. If it soaks in, add another coat of deck sealant. If it beads, the deck is ready for winter.

Prepare concrete and asphalt surfaces for colder weather by pulling weeds. Use concrete caulk to fill small cracks and use sealant on larger gaps. Pressure wash and seal before temperatures drop below 40°F. For those with a fireplace, the chimney should be inspected and cleaned by a professional once a year. Fall is the best time.

If necessary, give the yard one last mow. Cut the grass to a height of about two inches and clear any debris. Aerate to help the soil absorb winter nutrients and apply a pre-emergent herbicide to prevent weed growth. Apply fertilizer a few weeks before frost.

Next, clean yard tools of any excess grime, dirt, and debris. Change the mower’s spark plug, oil and filters as prescribed in the owner’s manual. Sharpen blades. Properly maintained, yard tools (even the mower!) should last a lifetime.

How’s the HVAC doing? Replace the furnace air filter every year. Check with the tech: If the furnace is 10 to 15 years old, and takes longer to heat up, consider replacement. Remove any debris from outdoor AC units and check for damage. Ensure proper operation and safety with a professional inspection.

Feeling overwhelmed? Break tasks into manageable steps and focus on one at a time. Celebrate small achievements and stay positive. If needed, hire professionals to avoid overextending yourself. Simple DIY projects can be satisfying, but complex ones may require expert help. Work with a plan to ensure progress and completion.