Getting Your Home Ready for Fall and Winter

As the temperatures drop and the leaves turn, fall in Minnesota is more than just pumpkin spice and football — it’s also the perfect time to prepare your home for the colder months ahead. A little maintenance now can save you from big headaches later and help keep your home cozy all winter long.

Here are some simple but important steps to get your home ready for the Minnesota fall and winter season:

1. Inspect and Clean Your Gutters

Once the leaves start to fall, your gutters can quickly become clogged. When that happens, melting snow and ice have nowhere to go — which can lead to ice dams and potential water damage.
👉 Pro tip: Clean your gutters after the leaves drop and check that downspouts drain away from your foundation.

2. Service Your Furnace or Boiler

Your heating system works hard all winter long, so it’s best to schedule a professional tune-up before the first real cold snap. A quick service can improve efficiency, extend the life of your system, and help lower heating bills.
👉 Bonus: Replace furnace filters every 1–2 months during heating season to keep airflow strong and air quality high.

3. Seal Drafts and Leaks

Even small drafts around windows and doors can make your home feel chilly — and send your heating bill soaring. Use weather stripping or caulk to seal gaps and consider upgrading to insulated curtains for extra warmth.

4. Prepare for Snow and Ice

Minnesota winters are no joke. Make sure your snowblower is running, stock up on salt or sand, and keep shovels handy. If you hire snow removal, line up your service before the first snowfall to avoid delays.

5. Protect Outdoor Spaces

Drain and store hoses, shut off exterior faucets, and bring in or cover outdoor furniture. If you have a deck or patio, give it a good clean and seal before winter to prevent cracking and moisture damage.

6. Check Exterior Lighting

With shorter days ahead, good lighting around walkways, driveways, and entryways becomes especially important. Replace any burnt-out bulbs and consider motion lights for safety.

7. Cozy Up Indoors

This is the fun part — switch out light throws for heavier blankets, bring out warm-toned decor, and make your space feel inviting. If you have a fireplace, have it inspected and cleaned before lighting that first cozy fire of the season.

8. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Heating systems, fireplaces, and space heaters make fall a critical time to ensure your detectors are working properly. Test all units and replace batteries as needed.

A Little Prep Goes a Long Way

Taking the time to prep your home for fall and winter not only keeps you comfortable but also helps maintain your home’s value — something we know matters to every Twin Cities homeowner.

If you’re thinking about selling this winter or just want advice on how to keep your home in top shape year-round, the Pauling Homes Team is here to help. We know what Minnesota homes need to stand strong through every season.

📞 Contact us anytime for local insight, trusted vendor recommendations, or a home valuation before the snow flies!