🍁 Fall Home Prep in Minnesota: Essential Tips Before the First Snow

A few weeks ago, we shared our Early Fall Home Maintenance Checklist for Homeowners — the perfect starting point for keeping your home in top shape as the seasons change. Now that the leaves are falling fast and temperatures are dropping, it’s time to focus on the next phase: preparing your home before the first snow arrives.

These timely tips will help you protect your home, save on energy costs, and avoid last-minute stress as Minnesota gears up for another chilly winter.

1. Inspect and Clean Your Gutters

Falling leaves and twigs can quickly clog your gutters. If water can’t drain properly, it can freeze, create ice dams, and damage your roof and siding.👉 Pro tip: Clean gutters and downspouts after most of the leaves have fallen, and check that water flows away from the foundation.

2. Schedule a Furnace Tune-Up

Minnesota winters demand a reliable heating system. A quick inspection by an HVAC professional ensures your furnace runs efficiently and safely.👉 Bonus: A clean filter and tune-up can help lower your heating bills.

3. Seal Windows and Doors

Drafts can sneak in through small cracks and gaps, driving up your heating costs.👉 Use weather-stripping or caulk around window frames and doors to keep the warm air in and the cold air out.

4. Prep Your Lawn and Garden

Give your yard a strong start for spring by tackling a few key fall tasks:

• Rake and mulch leaves

• Trim back perennials

• Fertilize your lawn before the ground freezes

👉 Don’t forget to shut off and drain outdoor faucets and hoses to prevent burst pipes.

5. Inspect Your Roof and Chimney

Heavy snow and ice can reveal weaknesses in your roof. Catching problems early helps avoid costly repairs mid-winter.👉 If you have a fireplace, schedule a chimney cleaning and inspection for safe, cozy fires all season long.

6. Check Safety Devices

Shorter days and increased furnace use mean more reliance on smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.👉 Replace batteries and test each device to keep your home and family safe.

🏡 Final Thoughts

Taking these steps in October means you can enjoy fall’s beauty without worrying about last-minute fixes when the first snowstorm arrives. A well-prepped home is not only safer and more comfortable — it’s also more appealing to buyers if you’re thinking of selling this winter or spring.