Fall is a beautiful time of year in Wisconsin—colorful leaves, crisp air, and the excitement of the holidays around the corner. But along with cooler temperatures and shorter days, fall also brings unique challenges for homeowners. Preparing your home now can help prevent costly damage during the winter months and keep your family safe and comfortable.
At Bremberger Insurance Agency, we care about helping homeowners protect what matters most. Here are some important steps to get your home ready for the season:
1. Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts
When gutters are clogged with leaves, twigs, and other debris, water can overflow and seep into your roof, siding, or foundation. This can lead to leaks, wood rot, basement flooding, and even ice dams once temperatures drop.
Tip: After clearing debris, run water through your gutters with a hose to make sure everything is draining properly. Ensure downspouts direct water at least 5–10 feet away from the foundation.
2. Inspect Your Roof for Wear and Tear
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. Fall storms and winter snow can be tough on shingles that are already cracked, curled, or missing. Even small issues can become costly leaks once snow and ice settle in.
Tip: Walk around your home with binoculars to spot problem areas, or hire a roofing professional for a more thorough inspection.
3. Seal Windows and Doors
Drafts don’t just make your home uncomfortable—they can significantly increase heating costs. Gaps also allow moisture to sneak in, which can damage wood frames and create mold problems.
Tip: Check for drafts by holding a lit candle near windows and doors—if the flame flickers, you’ve got an air leak. Apply caulking or install new weatherstripping to seal those gaps.
4. Service Your Heating System
Your furnace works hard all winter long, so make sure it’s ready to go before the first cold snap. A yearly tune-up helps your system run more efficiently, lowers your energy bills, and reduces the risk of breakdowns.
Tip: Replace filters at least every 1–3 months during the heating season. Dirty filters force your furnace to work harder and can shorten its lifespan.
5. Test Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors
With heating systems, fireplaces, and space heaters in use, the risk of fire and carbon monoxide exposure increases in colder months. Testing alarms and replacing batteries is a quick, inexpensive way to protect your family.
Tip: If your detectors are more than 10 years old, it’s time to replace them.
6. Protect Your Plumbing from Freezing
Frozen pipes can burst and cause extensive water damage. Fall is the time to insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas like garages, crawlspaces, or attics.
Tip: Disconnect garden hoses and shut off exterior faucets. For extra protection, install frost-proof spigots or use insulated faucet covers.
7. Trim Trees and Landscaping
Snow and ice add extra weight to tree branches. Weak or overhanging limbs can snap and fall on your home, garage, or power lines.
Tip: Walk your property and look for branches that hang over the roof or are too close to the house. Hire a professional for larger jobs.
8. Prepare Your Outdoor Spaces
Fall is the time to store or cover patio furniture, grills, and lawn equipment. Not only does this prevent rust and weather damage, but it also keeps your yard tidy and safe once the snow flies.
Tip: Drain fuel from lawnmowers and other gas-powered equipment before storing them for the winter.
9. Review Your Homeowners Insurance
Even with the best preparation, unexpected damage can still occur from storms, ice, or accidents. Reviewing your insurance coverage each fall ensures your policy keeps up with your needs and the value of your home.
Tip: At Bremberger Insurance Agency, we help homeowners all over Wisconsin make sure their policies cover the risks that come with changing seasons—whether that’s roof replacement, water damage, or ensuring your siding and roofing materials match if repairs are needed.
Final Thoughts
By taking time this fall to prepare your home, you’re not only making it safer and more comfortable for your family—you’re also helping to prevent costly repairs and insurance claims.
🍂 A little maintenance now can save a lot of stress later. And if you’d like peace of mind knowing your homeowners coverage is ready for whatever fall and winter may bring, the team at Bremberger Insurance Agency is here to help. Give us a call or send us a message anytime—we’d be glad to review your policy with you.
Jim Bremberger has worked in the insurance industry since 2009, gaining extensive experience with minor and significant claims that can significantly impact a family without adequate coverage. By joining the independent sector and teaming up with many insurance carriers, he can offer exceptional coverage at competitive rates for residents all over Wisconsin.