While the temperatures outside may feel otherwise, summer will soon be in the rear view mirror. This means that now is the time to perform those home maintenance tasks that should be done before the sun sets on the season of fun in the sun. Here is a good list of property upkeep tasks that should be done as summer comes to a close.
 

Clean Out Gutters

Neglecting the health of your gutters can lead to serious issues in the future, impacting everything down to the foundation of your home. The end of the summer is an ideal time to clean out these gutters, freeing them of the debris left behind by summer storms. Gutters tend to become the most clogged during the fall months as leaves come down from trees and end up in these chutes. Starting the season off with clear gutters is a smart preventative maintenance task.
 

Inspect the Roof

While you are busy cleaning the gutters, take the time to do a quick inspection of your roof. Things to look for include accumulating moss and missing or damaged shingles. Summer storms can do a number on a roof, meaning that you may not be aware that this part of the house has sustained damage until the costs of repair become out of control. As a bonus, you will likely find lower prices if you pay a professional to inspect your roof this time of the year when compared to the spring months.
 

Touch Up Exterior Paint

Take advantage of the nice weather by using this time to touch up the exterior paint of your home. This is also a good opportunity to do any interior painting. You will want to open your windows when painting, making it a smart decision to tackle this home improvement project when the conditions outside are still conducive for this. A new coat of paint inside or a touch-up on the outside will breathe new life into any house.
 

Weatherproof Outside Surfaces

Be sure to get out that pressure washer and clean up any exterior surfaces before the cold of winter arrives. Surfaces to include in your checklist encompass the driveway, patio, and deck. You may also consider weatherproofing the deck and fence if they are in need of this protection.
 

Service the HVAC Unit

Chances are, your air conditioning has been working hard this summer. In addition, winter will be here before you know it, meaning that your HVAC unit is not going to get much of a break from keeping your home comfortable. The end of the summer is always a good time to perform a regular inspection of this system. The last thing that you want is for your furnace to stop working during the coldest point in the season. Changing the furnace filter and inspecting for any potential issues could save you money and headaches in the long run.
 

Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Protect yourself and your family by regularly testing both your smoke and your carbon monoxide detectors. The batteries in carbon monoxide detectors should be changed once every six months while smoke detector batteries should be replaced once every 3 - 6 months, depending on the manufacturer's recommendations. Use this time getting things done around the house to perform these easy and potentially life-saving tasks.
 

Insulate Water Pipes

If you live in an area prone to freezing temperatures in the winter, you understand the importance of protecting your water pipes. You can insulate these pipes through the use of specially designed pipe sleeves or heat tape. Even pieces of newspaper can provide a small degree of insulation. The important thing is that you take some type of precaution to protect your pipes during times of prolonged cold.

You will head into the fall feeling better about the state of your home and property if you take the time now to perform these basic tasks. Prepare your home for what Mother Nature may have on the agenda for the fall and winter by making these maintenance tasks a priority.