🍁 Preparing Your Home for the Cooler Months in Shelby County

Hi friends, it’s Deb Long.

As much as I love the warm Alabama summers, there’s just something about fall in Shelby County that hits differently. The air turns crisp (well, Alabama crisp), and my front porch suddenly feels like the coziest spot on earth. The trees are showing off their color, the mornings feel a little more like sweater weather, and yes — football is already in full swing. Now we’re shifting gears into basketball season with the Birmingham Squadron and hockey nights with the Birmingham Bulls — two of my favorite reasons to get out and enjoy our community this time of year.

But before we dive into chili recipes and sports games, it’s also the perfect time to give your home a little seasonal TLC. With cooler temps (and the occasional cold snap) just right around the corner, a little prep now can save you time, money, and stress later.

Here’s my Shelby County homeowner checklist for fall and early winter — designed to keep your home cozy, safe, and ready for the season ahead.

🔧 1. Give Your HVAC Some Love

Your air conditioner worked overtime this summer, so reward it with a seasonal tune-up. Have a licensed tech service your system before the heat really kicks on.

• Replace filters (monthly if possible).
• Check for leaks and blockages in vents.
• Clear leaves and debris from the outdoor unit.

A little maintenance now helps avoid those “why isn’t the heat working?” moments when the temps dip below 40.

🔥 2. Ready the Fireplace

Whether you use wood-burning or gas, make sure your fireplace is clean and safe before lighting it up.

• Have your chimney inspected and swept.
• Test your gas logs and pilot light early.
• Keep flammable décor (like those cute fall garlands) away from open flames.

There’s nothing better than a cozy fire on game night — just make sure it’s a safe one.

💧 3. Protect Pipes and Outdoor Faucets

We don’t see weeks of deep freeze here in Alabama, but all it takes is one hard overnight frost to cause trouble.

• Disconnect and store garden hoses.
• Cover outdoor faucets with insulated covers. (We have some at the office if you want to stop by and get a FREE one!)
• Wrap any exposed pipes, especially in basements or crawl spaces.

A five-minute task now could prevent a major plumbing bill later.

🍂 4. Clear Those Gutters

Once the leaves fall, they tend to end up everywhere — especially in your gutters. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up onto your roof or around your foundation.

• Clean them out once most of the leaves have dropped.
• Run water through the downspouts to ensure proper drainage.
• Check that water flows away from your home’s foundation.

If you’re not comfortable on a ladder, hire a local pro. (I’ve got a great one if you need a recommendation!)

🌳 5. Trim Trees and Tidy the Yard

Strong winds and heavy rain can bring down limbs fast.

• Trim branches hanging over your roof, porch, or power lines.
• Rake leaves off your lawn to prevent mold and dead spots.
• If you have large oaks or pines, schedule a quick inspection for safety.

Fall is also a good time to reseed thin patches of grass — it’ll come back stronger next spring.

💡 6. Brighten Your Outdoor Lighting

Shorter days mean more time coming and going in the dark.

• Replace burnt-out bulbs on porches, walkways, and driveways.
• Add motion-sensor lights near entrances and backyards.
• Clean light fixtures so they shine brighter.

A well-lit home isn’t just welcoming — it’s safer, too.

🪟 7. Seal Up Drafts

If you can feel cool air near your doors or windows, your money is literally slipping outside.

• Add weather stripping or door sweeps.
• Reseal around windows and trim.
• Close fireplace dampers when not in use.

Even small fixes can make a noticeable difference in comfort and energy costs.

🏠 Wrapping It Up

Homeownership is about more than keeping up appearances — it’s about protecting your investment and creating a safe, comfortable place to live. A few hours spent on fall maintenance now means fewer headaches when the holidays roll around. You know that issues always arise when you have guests in your home or when they are arriving soon. Takes steps now to protect your most significant investment... your home.

If you’d like a list of trusted local pros — from HVAC and roofing to gutters and landscaping — I’m always happy to share my go-to contacts here in Hoover and Shelby County.

Your home is always more than just a house — it’s your story, your comfort, and your legacy.

Warmly,

Deb Long

Broker / Owner, Today’s Home Real Estate

📍 Hoover, Alabama

💻 calltodayshome.com