The scorching heat of summer is behind us. That means it's time to make sure your home is ready for the cooler fall months. Here's a list of 15 fall home maintenance must-dos to prepare your home.

1. Check Your Gutters 

Now that monsoon season has passed, take care of any loose gutters, broken pieces, and detached downspouts. While you're up there, make sure there's no leaves or other debris causing clogs.

2. Inspect Your Roof 

If you don't like ladders, contact a professional to check for broken or missing shingles and tiles, missing flashing, or areas of discoloration that might point to bigger problems.

3. Repair Sidewalks 

Cracked concrete only gets worse over time and fluctuating temperatures will give cracks a jump start. Extend the life of sidewalks and driveways by making repairs and halting cracks.

4. Change Furnace Filter 

After the hard work of the summer cooling season, refresh your HVAC system and extend its life with a fresh filter.

5. Sweep the Chimney 

Creosote buildup can lead to a chimney fire. Have your chimney swept and professionally inspected to make sure it's safe to operate this winter.

6. Fertilize the Lawn 

Fall is the perfect time to apply fertilizer to your lawn. It's been working hard to stay green all summer and could use a good feeding before its winter nap.

7. Check Smoke Detectors 

Make sure your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly and replace the batteries.

8. Insulate Pipes 

Las Vegas residents don't have to worry much about frozen pipes, but adding insulation will keep hot water hotter as it circulates to cut down on energy expenses. 

9. Guard Against Vermin 

As temps drop, rodents and insects will be looking for a warm new home. Seal up gaps and cracks to keep them out.

10. Test for Radon 

If you have not already, have your home tested for radon gas--a potential cancer-causing agent that can build up in your home.

11. Clean Vents 

Dryer vents can become cluttered with lint and cause a home fire. Clean your vents every fall to keep your home safe.

12. Maximize Window Coverings 

Keep your energy bills down this winter with strategic window shade placement. Open window shades on sunny days to let in warmth and close shades in the evening to help keep it in.

13. Check Handrails 

Loose railings can lead to serious injuries. Walk around your property to inspect and repair all railings.

14. Winterize 

Use caulk and weather-stripping to seal up gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and anywhere two materials meet to keep warm air inside where it belongs.

15. Inspect Your Furnace 

Finally, make sure your furnace is professionally cleaned and inspected to ensure it's safe and efficient.

Comfortably Appealing

To learn more about keeping your home comfortable and beautiful all winter long with custom window shades, contact Polar Shades for a free in-home consultation today! Call 702-260-6110 to get started.