Do-it-yourself gutter cleaning is simple enough, but it can be a dangerous job for the untrained weekend warrior. In the alternative, there are many types of gutter guard systems on the market to choose from, and all of them offer some sort of protection for your gutter at different costs.

For starters, hardware stores and home centers sell simple plastic or metal screens that cost as little as $1 per foot. But premium gutter guards are also available. These can cost as much as $25 per foot, including labor and materials, and generally are only available through an authorized dealer.

So are gutter guards really worth it? Like most home improvement adventures, we think it comes down to cost and convenience. While premium gutters guards can be costly, most are effective and a bargain when you add in the cost of any emergency room visits necessitated when adding your own personal spin on the season known as Fall!

Do you have gutter guards on your house? If so, we'd love to hear what kind you have and whether they really work!

Windows

Make sure your windows aren't costing you money this winter. Check for loose caulk or deteriorated weather-stripping, and then repair or replace it. Consider installing replacement windows, which are relatively inexpensive and will save you money on heating costs in the long run.

Chimney

Enjoy your fireplace with complete peace of mind by having the chimney checked and cleaned by a certified chimney sweep. It's vital that the chimney be examined for blockage that can cause dangerous carbon monoxide build-up. Leaves, sticks and sometimes even animals can plug up a chimney.

Roofs and Gutters

Roofs should be examined for any cracked, broken or missing shingles, and at the points where pipes, vents and chimneys come through your roof (where most leaks occur). Also check for blocked gutters, which can cause problems when water freezes inside and creates ice dams. When the ice and snow melts, it can get into your home and cause damage.

Lighting

The longer and darker days make exterior lighting more essential than at any other time of year. Check all your bulbs and add timers or photoelectric sensors. For spotlights, replace incandescent bulbs with halogens for improved clarity. Add or adjust motion detectors for safety and security.