Fall is the ideal season to tackle general home maintenance projects because the weather is generally dry and temperatures are moderate. Before you start your seasonal home maintenance checklist, examine both the interior and exterior of your home. The good news is that most of these home maintenance items can be accomplished without the help of a professional, but it’s always better to be safe and call for assistance if a home improvement project is beyond your abilities. Here are our seasonal home improvement recommendations for fall:

• Rake leaves and aerate the lawn.

• Have forced-air heating system inspected by a professional. Tip: schedule an inspection in late summer or early fall before the heating season begins.

• Check fireplace for damage or hazards, and clean fireplace flues.

• Seal cracks and gaps in windows and doors with caulk or weather stripping; replace if necessary.

• Swap old, drafty windows for more energy-efficient models.

• Touch up exterior siding and trim with paint.

• Inspect roofing for missing, loose, or damaged shingles and leaks.

• Power-wash windows and siding.

• Remove leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts.

• Mend cracks and gaps in the driveway and walkway.

• Drain and winterize exterior plumbing.

• Have fireplace professionally inspected.

• Tune up major home appliances before the holidays.

• Repair or replace siding.

• Replace the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Install a smoke detector on every floor of your home, including the basement.

• Clean the carpets.

• Clean window and door screens.

• Vacuum lint from dryer vent.

• Inspect exterior door hardware; fix squeaky handles and loose locks.

• Check for frayed cords and wires.

• Drain and store hoses, and drain in-ground sprinkler systems.

• Wrap insulation around outdoor faucets and pipes in unheated garages.

• Check water heater for leaks.

Download the full checklist.