As the autumn season sets in, it’s time to tackle those essential home maintenance tasks to keep your space in top-notch condition.
Outdoor Checklist
1. Gutter and Downpipe Inspection
Regularly cleaning gutters and downpipes is essential for maintaining the integrity and functionality of your home’s drainage system. Over time, leaves, twigs, dirt, and other debris can accumulate in gutters, leading to blockages that prevent rainwater from properly flowing away from your property. This buildup can result in water overflow, which can cause damage to your roof, walls, and foundation. By cleaning gutters and downpipes, you can prevent clogs, reduce the risk of water damage, and prolong the lifespan of your home’s exterior.
Clear any debris and dirt from gutters and downpipes to prevent blockages and potential water damage. Use a hose to check for leaks. Tell-tale signs of blocked drains including gurgling sounds, bad smells and water that drains away slowly.
2. Exterior Cleaning
Give your home’s exterior a thorough clean to remove dirt, cobwebs, and mould. Regular exterior cleaning helps to remove these contaminants, restoring the exterior surfaces to their original condition and preventing long-term damage. Pay special attention to windows, doors, and vents to prevent water penetration. Cover or put away any unused furniture to protect from any bad weather damage (make sure any furniture covers are tied down!).
3. Gate & Fence Security
Ensure all external gates are securely locked and hinges are in good condition. Over time, fences (and in particular, wooden fences) can deteriorate due to exposure to weather as well as general wear and tear. Regular maintenance tasks include inspecting for loose or damaged boards, repairing or replacing broken components, cleaning off dirt and debris, and applying protective coatings or sealants to prevent water damage and wood decay.
Check any fences for any signs of damage and make sure all fence posts are strong and secure. Consider covering wheelie bins and pool filters with custom wooden enclosures for protection from any bad weather.
4. Deck Maintenance
Regular inspections of your deck are key to identifying any signs of wear, such as loose or rotting boards, nails, or screws. These should be promptly repaired or replaced to prevent accidents and further damage.
Extend the life and appearance of your wooden deck by resealing it multiple times a year. High-pressure cleaning can remove stains and dirt, minimising slips and falls.
Indoor Checklist
1. Seal Check
Replacing window and door seals is a crucial maintenance task that often goes overlooked but can have a significant impact on the comfort and energy efficiency of your home. Over time, seals can become worn, cracked, or damaged, allowing drafts, moisture, and even pests to enter your living space. By replacing these seals, you can improve insulation, reduce energy costs, and create a more comfortable indoor environment.
Replace worn seals around doors, windows, and skylights to maintain comfort and energy efficiency, especially during winter.
2. Wall and Ceiling Inspection
Water stains or drips on internal walls could indicate water ingress, requiring immediate attention to prevent further damage.
3. Re-grout the Bathroom
Over time, the grout in your bathroom can become discoloured, cracked, or even mouldy, detracting from the overall aesthetic and cleanliness of the space. Re-grouting the bathroom tiles not only refreshes the appearance but also ensures better hygiene and longevity of your tiled surfaces. By removing the old grout and replacing it with fresh grout, you can eliminate mould and mildew, prevent water damage, and give your bathroom a renewed, polished look.
4. Bathroom Fan Maintenance
Clean exhaust fan blades, vents, and filters every 2-3 months to prevent mould buildup and ensure proper functionality.
5. Paint Touch-Ups
Refresh chipped surfaces like skirting boards and door frames to keep your home looking fresh and well-maintained. Check your surface area is thoroughly cleaned to remove any dirt, grime and dust which will affect paint adhesion. Any dents or scratches should be repaired prior to painting.
6. Laundry Organisation
When arranging your laundry area, it’s crucial to tailor it to your needs while alleviating any strain on other areas of the house. Place items least frequently used on higher shelves or in cabinets, and keep potentially hazardous substances like bleach out of reach from children and pets. Reserve easily accessible spaces for frequently used items, ensuring convenience and efficiency in your daily routine.
Declutter and organise your laundry space, optimising storage with racks, shelves, or wall-mounted airers for efficient use. Stack appliances to save on floor space.
7. General Decluttering
Clearing clutter may initially seem daunting, but once you tackle one room, you’ll likely gain momentum to tackle the rest of your home. The Marie Kondo method advocates keeping items that spark joy, making the decluttering process more manageable and rewarding.
From the front door to the garage, dispose of unnecessary items and find suitable storage solutions to maximise space and minimise clutter.
By staying on top of these essential tasks, your home will not only look its best but also provide comfort, safety, and peace of mind throughout the upcoming colder months.
Need assistance with any of these tasks? Reach out to our experienced Hubbies for expert help and advice. We’re here to ensure your home remains in top condition year-round!
Contact us today on 1800 803 339 0r click here to Book a Quote.
* Not all Hubbies offer all of the above services. Please check with your local Hire A Hubby franchisee when booking a job.
