September Home Maintenance Tips: Seal & Shield Your Home for Fall

As the temperatures start to cool and the leaves begin to fall, September is the perfect month to prepare your home for the upcoming winter season. Tackling a few essential home maintenance tasks now can save you money, improve comfort, and protect your biggest investment from damage. At S. Thomas Realty Group, we call September’s focus “Seal & Shield.”

1. Clean Gutters (Round One)

Leaves may just be starting to drop, but don’t wait for them to pile up. Early fall is the perfect time for your first gutter cleaning of the season. Clear away twigs, pine needles, and any leftover summer debris. Flush the system with a hose to ensure downspouts drain properly away from your foundation. Keeping gutters clear prevents water from backing up and seeping into your roofline or basement.

Pro Tip: If you have a lot of trees near your home, you’ll likely need to do a second gutter cleaning after peak leaf drop in late fall.

2. Weatherstrip Doors and Windows

Drafts may not be obvious yet, but they’ll quickly become noticeable when cooler air moves in. Check the weatherstripping around doors and windows, and replace any sections that are cracked, peeling, or missing. Adding or updating door sweeps can also make a big difference in sealing gaps at thresholds. Proper sealing improves comfort and reduces heating bills.

Pro Tip: At night, shine a flashlight around doors and windows. If light shines through gaps, so will cold air.

3. Fireplace and Chimney Service

Before cozy season begins, make sure your fireplace is safe to use. Schedule a certified chimney sweep for an annual inspection and cleaning. Creosote buildup can lead to dangerous chimney fires, and an inspection ensures your damper, flue, and chimney cap are all in good working order.

Pro Tip: Book early—fall is peak demand season for chimney pros.

4. Aerate and Overseed Cool-Season Lawns

If your home has cool-season grass varieties like fescue, September is the ideal time to core aerate and overseed. Aeration loosens compacted soil and allows oxygen, nutrients, and water to penetrate deeper. Overseeding afterward helps create a thick, lush lawn that can withstand winter and thrive next spring.

Pro Tip: After seeding, keep soil consistently moist until the new grass is well established.

5. Exterior Scan

Walk around your home’s exterior with a keen eye. Look for cracks in siding, peeling paint, or gaps in caulking around windows, doors, and trim. Seal or touch up as needed to prevent water intrusion during fall rains and winter freezes.

Pro Tip: Pay special attention to areas where utilities (like gas or cable lines) enter the home—these are common leak points.

Bonus Tasks

• Power-wash patios and decks to prevent leaf stains.

• Service garden tools and store summer gear.

• Replace your HVAC filter if it’s been 1–3 months since the last change.

Why September Maintenance Matters

The key to homeownership is staying ahead of seasonal changes. September’s focus on sealing and shielding your home prevents costly repairs, improves energy efficiency, and ensures your home is ready for cozy fall nights and chilly winter days.

At S. Thomas Realty Group, we believe caring for your home is just as important as buying or selling it. Looking for trusted local contractors to help with gutters, chimneys, or lawn care? We’ve got referrals you can count on.

Disclaimer: These tips are for general information only. Always use caution and consult licensed professionals for specialized work. S. Thomas Realty Group is not responsible for results or damages.