13 Weekend Chores to Complete Before the First Snowfall

A change in the season usually brings a gentle reminder to prepare your home for colder days. Weekends offer a convenient time to focus on chores that protect your space before snow covers the ground. This is a good opportunity to walk through your home and see what can be handled ahead of time. As you read along, consider which tasks you want to finish soon. Use this moment to get everything in order with ease.

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Clean Out the Gutters

Leaves and small branches tend to collect in gutters during fall, so this is a good time to clear them out. Water can freeze inside clogged gutters once winter arrives and cause damage that is expensive to fix. A simple cleaning helps water flow away from your home with no trouble. This quick chore can save you from bigger problems once the temperature drops.

A sturdy ladder and a pair of gloves are enough for most homes. You can scoop the debris by hand or use a small handheld tool. Check the downspouts to make sure water can move freely. Take a moment to rinse everything with a hose to confirm the path is clear.

Rake the Yard

A layer of leaves left on the ground can trap moisture and create problems for your lawn later. You can use a calm weekend to rake everything into neat piles and bag them for disposal. This simple task helps grass breathe before it goes dormant. Your yard will look cleaner and stay healthier through the colder months.

Use a wide rake that gathers leaves quickly without straining your arms. If you have a mulching mower, you can run it over the leaves to break them down. Check corners of your yard where leaves tend to collect. A quick final pass makes the whole space feel tidy.

Check Exterior Doors

As cold weather approaches, a quick inspection of exterior doors can make your home feel more comfortable. Look for small gaps where air may sneak through once the temperature drops. Many of these gaps can be fixed with simple weatherstripping. A few minutes spent checking each door can make the season easier to manage.

You can run your hand along the edges to feel for drafts. Replace worn-out seals that no longer sit firmly in place. A fresh door sweep can block cold air at the bottom. Make sure each door closes tightly with no movement.

Protect Outdoor Faucets

Outdoor faucets can freeze when snow arrives, so this is an important task to handle early. Water left inside the pipes can expand and cause damage. A quick check now can help avoid costly repairs later. This is a simple weekend task that requires only a few minutes.

Turn off the water supply connected to the outdoor faucet. Open the faucet to release any remaining water. Add a small insulated cover to keep it protected. Double check that everything is firmly secured.

Sweep the Deck or Patio

Leaves, dirt, and early frost can gather on decks and patios, so a quick sweep helps prepare the space. A clean surface reduces moisture buildup that can lead to slippery areas once snow begins to fall. This small chore keeps your outdoor area in better shape for spring. It also helps you notice any repairs that may be needed.

Use a sturdy broom that moves debris quickly. Look for loose boards or cracked stones as you clean. Remove pots or furniture that may trap moisture underneath. Take your time and make sure the entire area feels ready for winter.

Clean the Garage Floor

Dirt, leaves, and early salt residue can gather on garage floors before the cold sets in. A clean surface helps prevent slippery spots once snow starts to melt from your car. This task makes parking easier and keeps the garage looking neat. It also gives you a moment to notice any cracks or stains.

Sweep the floor first to remove loose debris. Use a mop or a simple cleaning solution to lift dirt. Allow the floor to dry fully before closing the garage. You can repeat this quick cleaning through the winter if needed.

Test Outdoor Lights

Outdoor lights help guide you during the darker months, so testing them now helps prepare your home. You can walk around your property and check each fixture for burnt bulbs. This task helps keep walkways safe once the days become shorter. A little attention now can prevent accidents later.

Replace dim or broken bulbs with fresh ones. Clean the glass covers to brighten the area. Make sure all wiring appears undamaged. Adjust the angle of each light so it reaches the right spots.

Inspect the Roof

A quick roof check can help identify small issues before snow covers everything. Missing shingles or worn patches can cause leaks once ice forms. An early inspection gives you time to fix things safely. This can help prevent bigger concerns during the colder months.

You can use binoculars to check the roof from the ground. Look for uneven areas or loose materials. If anything appears concerning, call a trained professional for repairs. Make sure gutters along the roofline look secure as well.

Clean the Fireplace

A warm fire becomes inviting once winter arrives, so a clean fireplace helps keep things safe. Ash and soot can build up over time, which affects the way smoke moves through the chimney. A quick cleaning prepares the space for colder nights. This is a comforting task that helps you enjoy your home more easily.

Remove leftover ash from previous fires. Wipe the interior walls with care. Check the chimney opening for signs of blockage. If needed, schedule a chimney cleaning before the season begins.

Prepare Snow Shovels

Early preparation makes winter mornings easier, so now is a good moment to check snow shovels. A damaged shovel can slow you down when snow arrives. Inspecting your tools helps you handle surprise flurries with ease. This weekend task takes only a few minutes.

Check for cracks in the handles or blades. Tighten any loose screws. Clean the surface to remove dirt from past seasons. Store the shovels in an easy-to-reach spot.

Trim Overgrown Branches

Branches hanging over roofs or pathways can cause trouble once heavy snow arrives. A simple trimming session keeps your home safer during storms. This also helps sunlight reach your yard before winter sets in. You can manage this task with basic tools.

Use pruning shears or a small saw for thicker branches. Always cut at a slight angle for cleaner results. Remove any branches touching the side of your home. Take your time to avoid damaging nearby plants.

Check Window Seals

Windows can let in cold air if the seals have worn down. A quick inspection helps keep your home more comfortable through winter. You can notice small cracks or gaps that you may have missed earlier. Fixing these areas now makes a clear difference later.

Run your hand around the edges to feel for chilly spots. Add or replace weatherstripping where needed. Wipe the window frames to remove dust or debris. Close each window tightly to confirm a good fit.

Organize the Shed

Garden tools and supplies usually pile up during the warmer months, so this is a great moment to organize everything. A neat shed makes winter storage easier and keeps tools safe from moisture. You can sort items, remove clutter, and make room for anything that needs protection from the cold. This chore helps keep your outdoor space orderly.

Sweep the floor to remove leaves and dirt. Group tools by purpose so they are easier to find later. Place seasonal items toward the back and keep essentials within reach. Make sure everything stays dry through the winter.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.