ROOF AND GUTTERS As a roof ages, an annual inspection earns its place on the list. Look for loose, damaged, or missing shingles, and check the flashing around vents, chimneys, and skylights, which is where leaks most often start and where they’re easiest to fix early. While the ladder is out, clear the gutters and run a hose through the system to confirm the downspouts drain properly. WATER SYSTEMS Any water line that sits unused through winter should be emptied before the deep freeze, since water left in the lines invites pipe damage. Blow out underground sprinkler systems zone by zone, remove hoses from outdoor spigots and cover the spigots, and remember the lines running to sheds and barns. A home standing vacant for the winter needs its whole plumbing system cleared and the water shut off at the main. THE OUTDOOR ROUNDUP Clean and dry garden tools before storing them, sharpen the edges, and drain or use up the gasoline in mowers and trimmers. Label seeds, bulbs, and plant starts, and mark where the garlic and other underground crops are planted. Clean and cover patio furniture and grills, winterize
the pool, and store flower pots, hoses, and any fountains that can’t take low temperatures. Play structures get a bolt check, swings and accessories that could rust or crack come down, and a trampoline cover protects the frame and springs from snow. Give the lawn a final dose of fertilizer, pull expired plants for the compost pile, and rake the leaves in with them. BE READY ANYWAY Even a well-prepared house loses power now and then. Keep flashlights with fresh batteries where you can find them, stock firewood for stoves, test the generator, and plan an alternate way to cook. Store at least three days of food and easily accessible water, since a home on well water loses its pump with the power. And keep a packed bag year round with critical paperwork, prescriptions, and a change of clothes in case of fire, flood, or another emergency. The list runs long, and it’s meant to be spread over several weekends rather than conquered in one. Every item shares the same goal: when the first hard frost arrives, the garden is tucked in, the small problems are already fixed, and the house is warm, sealed, and ready for the season ahead.
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September 2026
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