As the crisp weather of autumn arrives, it’s the perfect time to give your home a little extra care to ensure that it’s ready for the changing seasons. Seasonal maintenance plays a big role in keeping everything running smoothly, especially for homeowners who have had their home for a few years. Even if you’re a new owner of a Trophy Signature home, this checklist will still be valuable in the future—helping you keep your home in the best possible condition for many years to come. 

Check your heating system

As temperatures start to dip, your heating system will be working harder to keep your home comfortable, so keeping it well-maintained is not only more efficient, but also helps you avoid those mid-winter breakdowns. Start by checking the filters and replacing them if needed as any dirty or clogged filters make your system work hard—increasing energy consumption and impacting air quality. Scheduling an inspection with a professional is also a good idea at this time, as they can assess the condition of your system, check for leaks and clean any buildup that might reduce efficiency. 

Seal gaps and drafts

Even with high-quality windows and doors, small gaps can develop over time and allow cold air to seep in, making it harder to keep your home warm. Start by checking the seals around your windows and doors, especially in older homes, and if you notice any peeling or worn-out weatherstripping, replacing it can make a noticeable difference in keeping the warm air in and the cold air out. Don’t forget to check exterior walls and foundations for any gaps or cracks as well. These can sometimes be small and hard to spot, but sealing them will keep your home insulated and can help lower heating costs. For those with newer Trophy Signature homes, these areas will still be tight and secure, but it’s never a bad idea to get in the habit of checking them each season. 

Clean the gutters and downspouts

Leaves, sticks and other debris can clog gutters, especially during the fall season, and as this leads to water overflow that could damage your roof, siding or foundation over time, it’s important to clear out all debris and ensure that downspouts are directing water at least a few feet away from your home. If you’ve been in your home for a while, you may have already invested in gutter guards—however, it’s still wise to check that everything is in working order. If you’re new to homeownership, gutter maintenance is an easy but essential step that protects the structural integrity of your home. 

Trim trees and bushes near your home

Branches that come close to your roof can pose a risk, especially in stormy weather, so this is a great time of year to take a moment and assess the trees and shrubs around your home—trimming back any that have grown too close to the structure. For Trophy Signature homeowners, maintaining the landscaping around your new home also helps keep it looking its best while preventing any future issues from developing. 

Protect your home throughout the seasons

Whether your Trophy Signature home is new or a few years old, these fall maintenance tips will help protect your investment and keep your home running smoothly. Fall is a wonderful season to refresh your current home, but if you're in the market, it’s also an ideal time to consider a new build. Our team at Trophy Signature Homes has a number of available homes throughout the DFW and Austin areas, so if you’d like to learn more about working with our team, give us a call at (214) 550-5733 or fill out our online form today.