Most people associate spring cleaning with the coming of the warm-weather season. However, there are lots of reasons why you should be cleaning up and paying attention to your yard at the end of the warm season. 

As we transition into fall here in New England we’re preparing for snowstorms and frigid cold temperatures, all of these events can have catastrophic outcomes for your dwelling if you are not prepared.

Weather forecasts call for an extremely active winter season here in Connecticut so it’s more important than ever to take steps to protect your home.

Here are three things you should be doing around your yard this fall.

Inspect & Clean your Gutters and Roof

Raking up leaves in your yard is an important task during the fall season here and New England. As fall foliage begins to leave, it’s equally as important that you inspect your gutters where the leaves and other debris have been falling into over the year. Even if they don’t look problematic from the ground, there can be sediment and other issues you can only see up close.

This requires safely using a ladder or hiring a professional that will inspect your gutter system to ensure it’s still working efficiently to carry water up and away from your roof. It’s also a good idea to have your roof inspected if you feel there could be leaks or it is older in age. The last thing you want is a roof collapse during a blizzard,

Have your Chimney & Dryer Exhaust Duct Cleaned

One of the leading causes of fires in the home are dryer vents that have not been cleared. It is critical to take any lint and other items out of your dryer exhaust regularly. If you plan on using your fireplace to warm your home this winter then you must also have your professional chimney cleaned to ensure proper ventilation to reduce the potential risk for carbon monoxide poisoning. 

Trim Back Overhanging Branches and Cut Down Trees

If your home is located in a wooded area, one of your responsibilities is to ensure that all tree limbs are trimmed back and not overhanging onto the roof or dwelling. Damage can easily happen when heavy snow or ice lean on these limbs. The fall season is a great time to trim and have any trees that are problematic cut down.

Instead of waiting for the first snowfall to think about those things you should have taken care of over the summer around the house, spend time this fall doing these maintenance items and getting prepared!