The cooler weather is settling in and it’s the ideal time to tackle those important home maintenance jobs. A little preparation now helps keep your home warm, dry and comfortable during the colder months. It can also stop small issues from turning into bigger, more expensive problems. Use this simple autumn home maintenance checklist to help get your home ready for winter.
Check the roof and clear out gutters
Leaves and debris build up quickly in autumn causing blocked gutters and clogging up drainage systems. Regularly clearing out any blockages helps prevent water damage from overflow and ensures water drains away from your home.
- Clear leaves and debris from gutters and downpipes
- Check water is free flowing through the drainage system
- Install gutter guards to prevent leaves and debris build-up
- Inspect the roof for cracked tiles or damaged shingles
- Check flashing around chimneys and skylights for any gaps
- Fix small leaks or damage before winter rains arrive
Get your heating ready for winter
Before the temperatures drop, it’s a good idea to check your heating system is working efficiently. Having a warm, dry home is not only comfortable; it also helps lower power bills.
- Service your heat pump and clean or replace filters
- Check that your heating system is running properly
- Clean out wood burners and remove ash build-up
- Have chimneys inspected for blockages if you plan to use a fireplace
Seal gaps around doors and windows
Small gaps around doors and windows can let a surprising amount of heat escape. In many homes, as much as 25% of heat loss occurs through small cracks, gaps and poorly sealed openings. Sealing these gaps with weather stripping, foam seals or draught stoppers helps prevent warm air escaping and cold air from getting in.
- Inspect doors and windows for cracks or worn seals
- Use adhesive foam strips or weather seals to close gaps
- Place draught stoppers at the bottom of doors
- Check exterior walls for cracks that need sealing
- Consider upgrading older windows to double glazing
Check for damp and mould
During winter, many New Zealand homes are cold and poorly ventilated, which can lead to mould and damp. Tackling any damp issues early helps prevent expensive structural damage, ensures your home is easier to heat, and reduces health issues like asthma and allergies.
- Look for signs of mould in bathrooms, kitchens and laundries
- Clean small areas with a vinegar and water solution
- Open windows and doors during the day to improve ventilation
- Use extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms or a dehumidifier to reduce moisture levels
- Avoid drying washing inside and ventilate the laundry when using the dryer
Check lighting and safety around your home
Shorter days mean you’ll rely more on lighting inside and outside your home, so it’s worth checking all lights work properly. It’s also important to test your smoke alarms before winter, as house fire risk increases during colder months when heaters, electric blankets and dryers are used more often.
- Replace old or burnt out light bulbs
- Switch to energy efficient bulbs to save money
- Test all smoke alarms and replace batteries if needed
- Check outdoor lighting and fit motion sensor lights for better visibility
Warm your home with the sun
Simple habits help ensure your home stays warmer and more energy efficient during winter.
- Give your windows a thorough clean to more natural light to filter in and warm your home during shorter days.
- Open curtains and blinds during the day to let the sun in and close them in the evening to keep heat inside.
- Check that curtains fully cover the windows to reduce heat loss.
Keeping on top of seasonal maintenance protects the value of your home. It helps prevent costly repairs and ensures your home is comfortable during the months. If you’re planning repairs, renovations or home improvements this autumn, a Mortgage Express adviser could help. They can provide advice about refinancing to cover these costs and help you explore finance options. Get in touch today to connect with a mortgage adviser near you.
