Whether you're lamenting the end of summer or dreaming of cozy winter evenings by the fire, every homeowner will need to prepare for winter by performing fall maintenance. If the thought of fall maintenance is a bit overwhelming, the list of tasks doesn't need to be performed all at once in a last-minute rush before the first snowfall. Fortunately, the list can be less daunting if broken into two shorter lists: a list for the end of summer and a list for later in the fall. Having a few fall maintenance tasks finished early in the season not only relieves the pressure of completing the necessary tasks before winter, but also frees up more time in late fall for fun activities like football, holiday shopping or enjoying warm cider around the blazing firepit.

One job that can be done as soon as the temperatures start to drop is to close the swimming pool. Swimming pools can be closed when the summer heat is a happy memory and there's no more desire for a cooling swim. Nancy Fann-Im, writing for thisoldhouse.com suggests, "Start the winterizing process after the season is over, when the temperature consistently dips down to 65 degrees F or lower. If you start too early, you may encounter problems with algae, which thrives in warmer temps." Pool care in the fall helps prolong the life of the pool and helps make the pool opening easier next summer.

Another task that can be done at the end of the summer is to inspect the exterior of the house. Make a list of any repairs that need to be made before the cold weather arrives. Inspect the roof for loose shingles, the foundation for holes or cracks, gutters and downspouts that are broken or pulled away from the house and check for worn weatherstripping and cracked caulk around doors and windows. Doing this inspection early allows more time to get the jobs finished before the cold weather arrives.

Late summer/early fall is also a good time to have the annual furnace cleaning performed before the heating season begins when the furnace techs are in higher demand. If the home has a working fireplace, it's also a good time to have the chimney cleaned and the fireplace swept out. Having these tasks completed early not only takes two items off the fall maintenance list, but also provides a feeling of accomplishment and security knowing the heating system is freshly cleaned, safe and ready to provide the family with a warm comfortable winter.

Even though it's too early to put away the lawnmower and other landscaping equipment and may not be ready to contemplate snow clearing, making sure the snowblower and any other snow removal equipment is in good working order can be done at this time. Last winter's memories like broken parts on the snowblower or having used the last of the snow melt fade over a long busy spring and summer. A quick inspection of the winter snow gear can refresh the memory and if these items aren't yet available at the local hardware store, they can at least be added to a task list. It's reassuring to know the tools for snow removal are ready and waiting for the first snowfall.

Prioritizing and accomplishing a few fall maintenance jobs early in the season helps to ensure these important tasks are done long before the forecast calls for snow while leaving more free time to relax and enjoy the season later on.