As the crisp air of September sets in, it’s the perfect time for homeowners to prepare their properties for the upcoming winter season. Proactive maintenance now can help prevent costly issues later, while also ensuring your home is safe, efficient, and guest-ready for the busy months ahead.
Luxe Haus recommends addressing the following priorities this fall:
1. Pest Control – Secure Your Home Before Winter
As temperatures drop, pests begin looking for a way inside. Now is the time to lock in your pest control contract and address any entry points to keep rodents and insects from settling in for the season.
2. Fire Suppression System – Annual Inspection
Before fireplaces are lit and heating systems run full-time, schedule your annual fire suppression system inspection. Luxe Haus recommends tackling this in early fall to ensure everything is in working order before peak ski season.
3. Window Cleaning – Refresh Before Winter
Window cleaning is recommended at least twice a year. Early fall is an ideal time, allowing you to clear away summer dust and ensure your windows sparkle before snow arrives.
4. Exterior Concrete – Clean and Seal
Snow, ice, and road salts can be harsh on driveways and walkways. Sealing your exterior concrete each fall helps prevent cracking and spalling, saving you from costly repairs in the spring.
5. Deep Cleaning – Guest or Holiday Ready
Whether preparing for visiting family, hosting holiday gatherings, or getting ready for the rental season, schedule a professional deep clean now. A fresh reset ensures your home shines for every occasion.
6. Boiler and Snowmelt System Service – Winter Prep
Your boiler and snowmelt systems work hard during Park City’s long winters. Servicing them before the first snowfall ensures efficiency, prevents breakdowns, and keeps walkways and driveways clear.
7. Vehicle Detailing and Winter Prep – Ready for the Roads
Mountain winters are tough on vehicles. Schedule a professional interior and exterior detail to protect paint and finishes from road salt and grime. At the same time, prepare for winter driving by checking tread, topping off fluids with winter-safe blends, testing your battery, and replacing wiper blades. An emergency kit in the car is also a wise precaution.
8. Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors – Biannual Testing
For safety, test all detectors twice a year and replace batteries as needed. As fireplaces, furnaces, and boilers come back into heavy use, fall is a critical time to confirm all alarms are working properly.
9. Gutters and Heat Tape – Prevent Ice Dams
Inspect and clear gutters and downspouts before the snow flies. Proper drainage reduces the risk of ice dams, which can cause leaks and interior water damage. Consider installing or checking heat tape along rooflines and gutters to ensure meltwater flows properly during freeze-thaw cycles.
10. Chimney Sweep and Cleaning – Fire Safety First
Before using your fireplace this season, schedule a professional chimney sweep and inspection. Whether wood-burning or gas, this helps reduce fire hazards, improves efficiency, and ensures safe operation throughout the winter.
Bonus Tips Homeowners Often Forget
- Weather Stripping & Seals: Inspect door jambs, garage doors, and window seals. Replacing worn weather stripping reduces drafts, lowers heating costs, and keeps snow and ice from seeping inside.
- Weep Holes in Windows: Clear out dirt and debris so water drains properly. Blocked weep holes can lead to water pooling and freezing in frames.
- Outdoor Faucets & Irrigation Systems: Blow out sprinkler systems and disconnect hoses from outdoor spigots to prevent freezing and burst pipes.
- Attic & Crawlspace Check: Look for signs of rodent activity, moisture, or insulation gaps. Early fixes prevent mid-winter damage.
- Backup Power: Test generators and ensure fuel is on hand. Storm-related outages are not uncommon in the mountains, and preparation offers peace of mind.
- Whole-Home Humidifier Service: If your home has a built-in humidifier, schedule a cleaning and service. This protects wood floors, furnishings, and overall comfort in Park City’s dry climate.
Taking care of these maintenance items now will give you peace of mind and ensure your Park City home is ready for a seamless, worry-free winter season. For homeowners who prefer a proactive, hands-off approach, Luxe Haus offers comprehensive management services to handle seasonal maintenance and property care on your behalf.
