The Ultimate Fall Home Maintenance Checklist for Ontario Homeowners 🍂
As summer winds down, homeowners in Ontario know what’s coming next: crisp mornings, colourful leaves—and the long Canadian winter right around the corner. Fall is the perfect season to prepare your property, both inside and out, so your home is safe, comfortable, and protected from the elements.
Here’s a complete fall home maintenance checklist to help you get ready for the season (and the one after it).
1. Seal & Protect Your Driveway and Walkways
Your asphalt or concrete surfaces take a beating from freeze-thaw cycles, road salt, and moisture.
Inspect for cracks: Small cracks now can become major problems by spring.
Seal asphalt driveways to protect against water penetration and extend lifespan.
Concrete sealing helps prevent salt and moisture damage, especially for decorative or aggregate surfaces.
👉 Gold Standard Property Pros offers professional asphalt sealing and concrete sealing to lock out moisture before winter hits.
2. Prepare Your Lawn for a Healthy Spring
Fall is the single best season to set your lawn up for success.
Dethatching / Power raking removes built-up dead grass and allows nutrients to reach the soil.
Core aeration improves airflow and water absorption.
Overseeding thickens your lawn to crowd out weeds next year.
Fertilizing in fall gives roots the nutrients they need to survive winter and bounce back green in spring.
👉 Our fall lawn revitalization package covers all of these steps in one go.
3. Wash Away Summer Grime
Before winter locks in dirt, pollen, and debris:
Exterior window cleaning lets in maximum light during darker winter months and prevents buildup that can etch glass.
Power washing decks, patios, siding, and fences removes mold, mildew, and algae that thrive in damp fall weather.
👉 We specialize in power washing and streak-free window cleaning, even for multi-story homes.
4. Weatherproof Against Drafts & Critters
As the temperature drops, both cold air and small animals look for ways inside.
Inspect caulking around windows and doors—replace cracked or dried-out caulking.
Check weatherstripping on exterior doors and garage doors.
Seal small gaps or holes around pipes, vents, or foundations where mice, spiders, or insects might sneak in.
Install door sweeps to keep out drafts and pests.
5. Clean and Inspect Gutters & Downspouts
Leaves and debris clogging your gutters can cause ice dams and water damage.
Clean out all gutters and flush with water.
Make sure downspouts direct water at least 3–4 feet away from the foundation.
Check for sagging or leaks.
6. Protect Your Deck, Porch & Outdoor Surfaces
Wood and composite surfaces absorb moisture in fall, which can lead to warping and rot.
Power wash to remove dirt and organic matter.
Apply a water-repelling sealant if your deck hasn’t been treated recently.
Store or cover patio furniture to avoid rust and mold.
7. HVAC & Indoor Prep
Replace furnace filters before the heating season.
Book a furnace inspection or tune-up for efficiency.
Reverse ceiling fan blades to push warm air down.
Check smoke and CO detectors.
8. Garden & Landscaping Prep
Rake leaves regularly (or mulch them with a mower).
Cut back perennials and remove annuals.
Drain and store hoses to prevent cracking.
Shut off and winterize exterior faucets.
9. Bonus “Don’t Forget” Items
Chimney & fireplace inspection before use.
Check insulation in attics and basements for signs of pests or air leaks.
Stock up on winter supplies (ice melt, snow shovels, fuel for snowblower).
Why Fall Maintenance Matters
Spending a weekend (or calling in the pros) for fall prep saves thousands in costly repairs down the road. From preventing water damage to ensuring your lawn comes back lush in spring, this is one of the smartest investments you can make in your property.
And remember—you don’t have to do it all yourself.
👉 Gold Standard Property Pros offers driveway sealing, concrete sealing, lawn revitalization, window cleaning, and power washing services across Ontario.
We’ll help protect and beautify your home this fall so you can enjoy the season worry-free.
