Angie's List: Fall checklist for your home

The fall season offers homeowners a final chance to prepare for the upcoming cold weather. It’s also a great opportunity to increase your home’s energy efficiency – thus saving you money on your energy bills.

Angie’s List Tips: Your home’s fall Checklist

1. Roof: The roof is one of the most important parts of the house because it provides direct shelter from the elements. It’s also one of the most expensive and time-consuming to fix. Roofing contractors suggest you have your roof inspected in the fall before winter, and again in the spring, after winter. A roof inspection can help identify potential signs that could lead to major problems – some roofing companies don’t charge for this service. Replace any cracked or damaged shingles or roofing pieces.

2. Gutters: Your gutters are responsible for protecting your roof by removing excess water and draining it back to the ground. It gutters are blocked, water can accumulate on the roof causing damage.  Clean your gutters and downspouts late in the fall season. Leaves can hold water, which in turn becomes ice, adding weight to your gutters and roof.

3. Service your heating system: Schedule an appointment to service your heating system. A tune up can make sure it’s in top working order. Check your furnace filters each month and replace if necessary. A clean filter distributes heat better and cuts your energy costs. Plus, it’s an inexpensive and easy task.

4. Weather-strip windows and doors: New, energy-efficient replacement windows are a high-end investment not all homeowners can afford. There are, however, lower-cost remedies that can be effective - Caulk, seal and weather-strip doors and windows where drafts are detected is one of the cheapest and easiest ways to save on heating costs. Find drafts by walking through your home with a lit candle. Drafts will put the smoke in that direction, making it easier to determine where the cold air is seeping in.

A handyman can conduct an inspection of the home to determine what steps need to be taken to improve the home. They can determine where air is escaping in windows and exterior doors