Fall is a time for harvesting the fruits of your labor, and it’s a time to enjoy the crisp, cool weather and the leaves changing color. There are many things to do during the fall season, such as go on hikes, apple picking, or a pumpkin patch. However, preparing your home for the season should be on top of your list.
Here are five ways to prepare your home for fall:
Start By Decluttering Your Home
Clutter might have piled up in your home throughout the summer season, which can cause you a lot of stress if you don’t get rid of it. You can start by decluttering your home and removing anything you don’t need. This will give you more space and help you relax. You can also use this opportunity to deep clean your home, so it’s ready for the colder months.
Decluttering requires some planning, so here’s what you can do as a start. First, list all the areas in your home that need decluttering. Once you have your list, start with one place and work until you’re done. You can also declutter your home room by room.
You can declutter by making sure to set aside some time each day to work on it. Schedule certain days for specific rooms. Additionally, ensure that you only have the things you need and nothing else.
You should also start cleaning your home while you’re at it. One of the essential things you should begin cleaning is your windows. The windows can get dirty because of the humidity of the summer months. One way to get it cleaned properly is by getting a professional. A professional window cleaning service can make short of that chore in no time. Furthermore, they can also help you with fall window maintenance such as caulking and weather-stripping.
Prepare Your Heating System
As the temperature drops, you’ll want to ensure your heating system is in good working order. Winter months are getting colder nowadays, and extra heating never hurts. This includes getting it serviced by a professional and changing the filters. Additionally, you should also insulate your home to keep the heat in. Some areas you can focus on are your windows, doors, and attic.
You can also take some preventative measures to avoid any issues with your heating system. For example, ensure no objects are blocking your vents and clear any debris that might have accumulated around your furnace. Lastly, always watch the pilot light and call a professional if you have any concerns.
Get Your Fireplace Ready
If you have a fireplace, now is the time to prepare it for use. This includes getting it cleaned and inspected by a professional. You should also stock up on firewood to prepare for the colder months. Additionally, ensure you have all the tools such as a fire poker, shovel, and brush. These will come in handy when you need to tend to the fire.
Ensure that your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly. It’s also a good idea to create an escape plan in an emergency.
Tend To Your Garden
Your garden might be one of the areas that need the most attention during fall. Of course, it’s because you need to harvest your fruits and vegetables. However, you should also start preparing your garden for winter by cleaning it up and removing any dead plants. Additionally, you should mulch your garden to insulate the ground and protect the roots of your plants.
You should also be on the lookout for pests. As the temperature drops, pests such as mice and rats might start looking for a warm place to nest. To prevent them from getting into your home, seal any cracks or holes in your walls and foundation.
You can also start planting some fall crops such as pumpkins, squash, and kale. These are easy to grow and will give you something to do during the colder months.
Prepare Your Home Exterior
Your home exterior also needs some attention during fall. You must protect it from harsh weather conditions such as strong winds and heavy rains. Start by cleaning your gutters and downspouts to ensure they’re debris-free. You should also trim any trees or bushes close to your home.
Another thing you can do is to winterize your home exterior. This includes insulating your pipes, caulking gaps, and storm windows. These measures will help you reduce energy bills and keep your home warm during winter.
Lastly, you should also consider getting your home insurance policy reviewed. It’s because the weather conditions in fall can be unpredictable. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
By following these tips, ensure your home is ready for the fall season. You’ll be glad you did when fall comes around.
