Fall Home Maintenance Checklist: Prepare for Minnesota Winter

Oct 13, 2025

Minnesota winters are no joke. Between heavy snow, freezing rain, and icy winds, your home needs to be ready to withstand months of harsh weather. The fall season is the perfect time to tackle a fall home maintenance checklist that will protect your home, save you money on energy bills, and prevent costly repairs when temperatures drop.

At A-1 Restoration, we’ve been helping Twin Cities homeowners with roofing, siding, windows, and storm damage repairs since 2007. Based on our experience, here’s a fall maintenance checklist Minnesota residents can follow to get their houses ready for the cold season.

1. Inspect and Repair Your Roof

Your roof is the first line of defense against Minnesota’s snow and ice. Look for:

Missing, cracked, or curling shingles
Signs of leaks in the attic or ceiling
Loose flashing around chimneys and vents

If you spot issues, schedule a professional inspection. A-1 Restoration is an Owens Corning Preferred Contractor, and we can handle everything from minor roof repairs to full replacements. Taking care of roof problems in the fall ensures your home is ready before winter storms arrive.

2. Check Windows and Doors

Drafty windows and doors can lead to skyrocketing heating bills. This fall, make sure to:

Inspect caulking and weatherstripping for cracks or gaps
Test locks and latches for a tight seal
Consider replacing older windows with energy-efficient options

We install high-quality windows from Marvin, Pella, Andersen, and other trusted brands. A window upgrade is one of the smartest steps in Minnesota winter home prep, keeping your family warm and comfortable.

3. Clean and Repair Gutters

Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and freeze, leading to ice dams and roof damage. To prevent problems:

Remove leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts
Make sure water flows away from the foundation
Repair or replace damaged sections

Properly working gutters protect your roof, siding, and foundation from water damage throughout the season.

4. Inspect Siding and Exterior Surfaces

Your siding provides a protective barrier for your home. In the fall, walk around your property and look for:

Loose or missing panels
Cracks, dents, or warping
Areas of rot or rust

A-1 Restoration offers siding installation and repairs using durable materials like steel, LP SmartSide, and vinyl. Addressing siding issues in the fall helps prepare your house for winter in Minnesota by keeping cold air and moisture out.

5. Test Heating and Insulation

Don’t wait until the first subzero night to find out your heating system isn’t up to the task. Make sure to:

Change furnace filters
Have your system serviced by a professional
Check attic insulation for adequate coverage

Good insulation and efficient heating can make your home more comfortable and reduce winter energy costs.

6. Prepare for Storms

Minnesota winters bring high winds and heavy snow. Be prepared by:

Storing patio furniture and outdoor equipment
Checking that sump pumps and backup generators are working
Reviewing your homeowner’s insurance policy

If storm damage does occur, A-1 Restoration specializes in working with insurance claims to restore your home quickly and professionally.

Get Expert Help Before Winter Arrives

Completing home maintenance before winter will save you stress, money, and headaches when the snow starts flying. Whether you need roof repairs, new siding, or replacement windows, A-1 Restoration is here to help.

We’re a locally owned company and A+ rated with the Better Business Bureau. When you choose us, you’re choosing a trusted partner who will advocate for your home and ensure it’s ready for whatever Minnesota winter brings.

Contact A-1 Restoration today for an inspection of your home’s exterior and get peace of mind knowing your property is prepared for the season ahead.

We found Gus and A-1 on the Better Bureau website. They responded quickly to our request for a bid and were very thorough in the explanation of their process and products. After getting bids from multiple companies, we chose A-1 for their professionalism and attention to our questions. Gus worked well with our insurance company and kept us informed. He was very helpful and patient with us as we picked out shingles and gutters. He kept us updated on schedules and set up a great team to complete our work. He came to our house as they worked and when they were done. He completed the inside work on our skylight himself and his gutter guy was amazing!

Tom and Kristin S.

Our experience with Gus Pierce and A-1 Restoration was absolutely awesome! Not only was Gus persistent in dealing with our insurance company, but he did a great job in helping us select the replacement materials and he did a great job in arranging for and supervising the work crews. The work crews were hardworking, efficient and careful. They did an excellent job. We are very happy with the work! We highly recommend Gus and A-1 Restoration.

George S.

I highly recommend Gus and the A-1 Restoration team. They are true professionals. Gus was instrumental in working with our insurance company and helping us choose the best options for our new roof and windows. Every step of the way Gus communicated with us and the process was smooth. Our house looks great. Thank you Gus and Team.

Bob S.

Gus and his team did a fantastic job on my roof and gutter project. When the hail came through, we knew we’d have storm chasers knocking on our door but I already knew who I was calling. I was calling A-1 Restoration because of their local reputation and outstanding customer service. Can’t recommend these guys enough!

Matt H.