Fall Exterior Maintenance Checklist for Michigan Homeowners
- Lake Effect Exteriors
- Oct 3
- 2 min read
Michigan’s fall season is beautiful, but it’s also a critical time to prepare your home for winter. Dropping temps, wind-driven rain, and early snow can take a toll on your exterior. Performing a few key maintenance tasks now can help you avoid expensive repairs in the colder months.
Here’s your fall checklist to keep your siding, roof, gutters, and more in top shape before the snow flies.
1. Inspect Your Roof
Look for missing, lifted, or cracked shingles, especially around flashing or vents. Pay attention to valleys where water drains and areas around chimneys or skylights.
Pro Tip: Nail pops and failed pipe boots are small issues that often lead to leaks when left unattended.
2. Clear Gutters and Downspouts
Fallen leaves clog up drainage fast. Clean your gutters thoroughly and make sure downspouts direct water away from your foundation. Clogged gutters can cause roof edge rot and basement flooding.
3. Seal and Caulk Problem Areas
Check around windows, doors, utility penetrations, and siding seams. Recaulk and seal any cracks to keep cold air and moisture out.
4. Inspect Siding for Damage
Look for soft spots, bubbling paint, warped panels, or mold/mildew stains. These are signs that water is getting behind your siding and that it may be time for a replacement, especially if your siding is older wood or vinyl.
5. Check Decks and Exterior Trim
Trim boards, fascia, and deck railings can deteriorate quickly when exposed to fall moisture and freezing temperatures. Tighten loose fasteners, replace any soft wood, and consider sealing exposed surfaces.
6. Schedule a Professional Inspection
A quick tune-up from a professional can catch problems you might miss and ensure everything is sealed, secured, and winter-ready.
Fall Roof Tune-Up Special — Limited Time Only
Get $650 worth of roof care for just $250 this October and November.
Your fall tune-up includes:
✔️ Caulking & sealing of vents, flashings, and nail holes
✔️ Tightening loose shingles
✔️ Nail pop repairs
✔️ Full attic, roof, gutter & exterior inspection
✔️ $250 credit toward future new installation
This is a limited-time offer to protect your home before winter hits.
