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Bettesworth Construction
Exterior Remodeling

Fall Home-Preparation Checklist: What to Check Before Winter

Check for visible roof damage, clear gutters, seal drafty windows and doors, and inspect exterior surfaces before winter. Plan larger projects early.

By Bettesworth Construction Team 2 min read
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Before winter arrives, check your roof, gutters, windows and doors, and exterior surfaces for visible damage or gaps that could let water or cold air in. Address active leaks or loose materials first, then use the fall inspection to plan larger projects. These are seasonal maintenance suggestions from a Crown Construction-sponsored article published by 607 News Now on October 5, 2026—not a building-code checklist or a substitute for a professional assessment.

Start with visible damage and water entry

Walk around your home and look for signs that water is getting in or materials are coming loose. If you see active water entry, significant damage, or a condition you cannot safely inspect, arrange an appropriate professional assessment rather than attempting a risky repair.

Inspect the roof

From a safe vantage point, look for missing or damaged shingles, worn areas, damaged flashing, and signs of water intrusion. Snow, ice, and repeated freezing and thawing can make existing problems worse. A ground-level visual check cannot establish the condition of the whole roof; have a qualified professional assess concerns that are difficult to see or evaluate safely.

Clear gutters and check drainage

Remove leaves and other debris from gutters, and check that downspouts carry water away from the home. Blocked drainage can leave water trapped; when it freezes, ice buildup can contribute to gutter damage or water problems near the roof or foundation. If you cannot clear gutters safely, hire someone equipped to do the work.

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Check windows and doors for drafts

Look for drafts, deteriorated caulking, and damaged or flattened weatherstripping around windows and doors. Replacing worn weather stripping for doors or windows, or renewing suitable caulk, may help seal gaps and reduce unnecessary heat loss. Choose materials appropriate for the surface and gap; these measures do not repair structural damage, and no specific energy savings are established by the sponsored article.

Look over siding, trim, decks, and porches

Check exterior surfaces for cracks, loose materials, and water damage. Note areas that may need repair before freezing conditions make exterior work harder. Do not assume a surface-level fix will address the cause of water damage; investigate further if the source or extent is unclear.

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Use the inspection to plan larger projects

Fall can also be a useful time to identify projects that need more than routine maintenance, such as additions, kitchen or bathroom renovations, siding work, or replacement windows. Planning early gives you time to consider options and establish a budget before committing to work.

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The October 5, 2026, 607 News Now article is sponsored by Crown Construction. It describes the company as based in Dryden, New York, serving the Finger Lakes Region, and offering interior and exterior remodeling, design-build, and handyman services. The article invites readers to request a free quote; it does not establish project pricing, availability, or terms.

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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

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