You’ve heard of spring cleaning, but did you know that there are tasks you should complete in the fall as well? As the leaves change colour and the air turns crisp, it’s the perfect time to start preparing your home for the winter months to prevent damage and costly repairs come spring again. Here are things you can do in the fall to prepare your home for the winter ahead.
12 Things to Check in & Around Your Home in the Fall
These tasks really don’t take long and they are well worth the effort and investment, especially when it comes to ensuring your and your family’s safety. The winter months can be long and bring about unexpected weather at any time, so why not thoroughly prepare for it beforehand?
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Inspect & Clean Gutters
As leaves begin to fall, it’s crucial to clear out your gutters to prevent clogs that can lead to water damage. Make sure to check for any signs of wear or damage while you’re up there!
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Check Heating Systems
Before the cold sets in, schedule a maintenance check for your furnace or heating system. Replace filters and ensure everything is functioning properly to keep your home warm and energy-efficient.
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Check For & Seal Drafts
Inspect windows and doors for drafts and seal any gaps with weather stripping or caulk. This will help keep your home cozy and reduce heating costs.
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Store Outdoor Furniture
If you have patio furniture or garden tools, clean and store them away to protect them from harsh winter elements. This will prolong their life and maintain their appearance.
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Prepare Your Garden
Trim back perennials, rake leaves, and plant bulbs for spring blooms. Adding mulch can also protect your plants from freezing temperatures.
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Cut & Aerate Your Lawn
Cutting the grass to a shorter length in the fall can help prevent snow mold from developing over the winter months. Snow mold is a fungus that thrives in cool, wet conditions and can cause unsightly patches of dead grass in the spring. Aerating your lawn involves creating small holes in the soil to allow for better air and water circulation. This helps to improve root growth and overall lawn health, leading to a thicker, more resilient lawn in the spring.
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Check Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors
With more time spent indoors, it’s important to ensure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly. Replace batteries as needed.
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Inspect Insulation
Check your attic and crawl spaces for adequate insulation. Proper insulation can significantly reduce heating costs and keep your home comfortable.
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Prepare for Snow Removal
If you live in an area that experiences heavy snowfall, now is the time to prepare. Make sure your snow shovels are in good condition, and consider stocking up on salt or sand for icy walkways.
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Check Your Fireplace & Chimney
Check your fireplace and chimney for debris before winter arrives to ensure safe and efficient operation throughout the colder months. Accumulated soot, leaves, and animal nests can create a fire hazard and obstruct proper airflow, leading to dangerous conditions.
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Clean up Your Driveway & Walkways
By taking the time to clean and seal these areas, you can prevent water from seeping into cracks and freezing, which expands and causes further deterioration. Start by clearing away debris, removing built-up grime and stains, and filling any gaps and cracks to keep moisture out and maintain the integrity of the surface. Lastly, applying a sealant creates a protective barrier against water, salt, and other harsh winter elements, reducing the risk of damage.
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Stock up on Emergency Supplies
By having a well-stocked emergency kit, you can ensure that you and your family have the necessary supplies to stay safe and comfortable during any emergency situation such as a power outage. It’s better to be proactive and prepared ahead of time rather than scrambling to gather supplies when a winter storm hits.
Winterizing Your Home Can Help You Avoid Future Problems
By tackling these essential fall tasks, you’ll not only prepare your home for winter but also create a more comfortable and energy-efficient living space. To make the process even easier, be sure to check out the Jenkins Fall Home and Garden shows, where you can meet vendors who offer services and solutions for winterizing your home. Embrace the season and get expert help to ensure your home is ready for the colder months ahead!
