🍂 Fall Checklist for Wisconsin Home and Building Owners

jamie59416
Oct 1
3 min read

Prepare Your Property Before Winter Hits Hard

Fall in Wisconsin brings crisp air, colorful leaves, and—most importantly—a short window of time to prep your property for winter. Whether you're a homeowner or a commercial property manager, a fall maintenance checklist is your best defense against costly repairs and winter damage.

At Noffke Roofing, we’ve seen how quickly Wisconsin’s weather can turn—and we’re here to help you stay ahead of it. Use this checklist to protect your investment and make sure your home or building is ready for the long, cold months ahead.

✅ Exterior Fall Maintenance Checklist

1. Inspect the Roof

Wisconsin winters are tough on roofs, so fall is the time to catch any issues.

Look for missing, cracked, or curling shingles
Check flashing around chimneys and vents
Look for signs of sagging or rot
Schedule a professional inspection if it's been more than a year

💡 Pro Tip: Don’t wait until snow piles up to fix a leaky roof. Early repairs save time and money.

2. Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Clogged gutters can cause ice dams, roof leaks, and foundation damage.

Remove leaves, twigs, and debris
Make sure downspouts drain away from the building
Consider gutter guards if you have a lot of trees nearby

🌧️ Water should flow freely and be directed at least 3–6 feet from your foundation.

3. Check Siding and Exterior Walls

Your home’s siding takes a beating during winter—make sure it's solid.

Look for cracks, gaps, or signs of water damage
Seal any holes where pests could enter
Power wash mildew or stains before it gets too cold

4. Seal Windows and Doors

Drafty windows and doors drive up your heating costs.

Check for air leaks using a candle or incense stick
Add caulk or weatherstripping where needed
Inspect windowsills, frames, and glass for damage

🔒 Bonus: Sealing drafts makes your home more energy-efficient and comfortable.

🧊 Cold Weather Preparation

5. Winterize Outdoor Plumbing

Frozen pipes can burst and cause major water damage.

Drain and disconnect garden hoses
Shut off and drain exterior faucets
Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas

6. Inspect Your Attic and Insulation

Poor insulation leads to heat loss and ice dams.

Check that insulation is evenly distributed
Make sure attic vents are unblocked
Look for signs of moisture, mold, or pests

7. Service Your Heating System

Don’t wait until it’s 10°F and your furnace goes out.

Replace furnace filters
Schedule a professional HVAC inspection
Test thermostats and carbon monoxide detectors

🔥 A well-maintained heating system is safer, more efficient, and more reliable.

🏢 Extra Tips for Commercial Property Owners

If you manage a commercial building in Wisconsin, fall is your last chance to prepare for snow, ice, and high foot traffic.

Inspect flat roofs for ponding water and membrane damage
Clean roof drains and scuppers
Schedule snow removal services in advance
Ensure proper lighting in parking lots and walkways
Stock ice melt and safety signage for entrances

⚠️ Slip-and-fall claims rise in winter—don't risk it.

🍁 Final Thoughts

Taking time, this fall to inspect and prepare your property can save you thousands of dollars in emergency repairs later. From your roof to your furnace, everything works better when it’s maintained before the snow flies.

If you're not sure where to start, or you'd like a professional inspection, we're here to help.