As fall rolls into the San Luis Valley, the days get shorter and the nights get colder. Now’s the time to get your home ready for winter. A few simple steps can save you money, prevent damage, and keep your home warm and safe.
Fall Maintenance Checklist: 8 Things to Do Before Winter Sets In
Here’s your local fall home maintenance checklist for Colorado homes. Feel free to reach out to our team directly with any seasonal preparation questions you have!
#1 Check Your Heating System
Make sure your furnace or boiler is ready before you need it. Change filters. Test the thermostat. Call for a tune-up if it’s been a while.
If you have a wood stove or fireplace, clean the chimney and check for cracks or blockages.
#2 Seal Drafts and Add Insulation
Look around windows, doors, and siding for gaps. Replace worn weatherstripping. Caulk where needed.
Add insulation in attics, crawl spaces, and basements to help keep heat in and energy costs down.
#3 Protect Your Pipes
Freeze damage is expensive, so take steps to protect your pipes. Disconnect hoses. Drain outdoor faucets. Add insulated covers to spigots.
Wrap exposed pipes in unheated spaces like garages or crawl spaces with foam insulation.
If you plan to leave your home during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55° F.
#4 Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Clear out leaves and pine needles. Make sure downspouts send water at least three feet from your foundation.
Check for sagging spots or leaks and fix them before snow arrives.
#5 Inspect Your Roof
Look for loose shingles, cracked flashing, or worn sealant. Small repairs now can prevent big leaks later.
#6 Winterize Your Yard
Fertilize your lawn. Prune dead branches. Clean up leaves. Drain and store garden hoses.
Winterize your sprinkler system to protect it from freezing.
#7 Test Safety Devices
Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace old batteries. Make sure outdoor lights are working.
#8 Stock Winter Supplies
Shovels, ice melt, fuel for snow blowers—have them ready before the first storm.
If you’re planning indoor projects this winter, stock up on materials now while supplies are available.
Earn Rewards While You Prep!
When you shop for your fall projects at Alamosa Building Supply or La Jara Trading Post, you can earn KickBack Points. Every purchase earns points you can redeem like cash at participating locations. Ask our team to get you signed up—it’s quick and free.
Need a Local Partner for Fall Prep?
We know what Colorado winters can throw at you. From weatherproofing supplies to snow shovels, we’ve got the right products and advice to help you get ready. Stop by today and let’s make sure your home is prepared before the cold weather hits.
Need the pros for any of these to-dos? Reach out to us. We offer an array of local home services and have connections with several trusted local contractors who are ready to help you out!
