Fall is a beautiful time of year, but it can also be a time of harsh weather. As the temperatures start to drop, it's essential to prepare your home for the upcoming season. Here are five steps every homeowner should take to get ready for fall:
1. Declutter and Clean
The first step in preparing your home for fall is to declutter and clean. Clear out unnecessary items, such as unworn clothing or furniture you no longer need. This will help make your home easier to clean but also look and feel more spacious. There's nothing better than having a clean, sparkling house to come home to!
2. Seal Up Any Cracks or Holes
Fall is a time when the weather can be unpredictable. As the temperature drops, the air can become drier, which can cause cracks and holes to form in your home's exterior. Cold air and moisture can seep in, which can lead to the potential for mold and mildew to fester. Address the issue by sealing any cracks or holes with caulk or weatherstripping. Tackling this step will help to keep your home from being cold and drafty.
3. Change Your Air Filters
Air filters help keep your home's air clean and free of pollutants. However, they can become clogged over time, which reduces their effectiveness. To ensure your air filters work efficiently, change them every 3-6 months. The change of every season is a great time to do this, especially after a long, pollen-filled summer!
4. Prepare Your Heating System
Don’t get caught without a working heating system with winter right around the corner. If you have a furnace, get it cleaned and serviced before the cold weather arrives. This will allow it to run efficiently and ensure it lasts many years.
5. Fall-Proof Your Landscaping
As the fall months bring the fall(ing) of leaves, they can often lead to problems like clogged gutters and blocked drains. To prevent this, rake up leaves regularly and keep your gutters and drains clear. Also, add some mulch to your flower beds to help keep the soil moist and to prevent weeds from growing.
Even More to Think About
Taking these five steps every fall can help prepare your home for the season, making your home comfortable and safe while maintaining the integrity of your home for years to come. Other things to consider include bringing outdoor furniture indoors or covering it with a tarp, cleaning your windows and screens, winterizing your outdoor faucets, and checking your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Altogether, these tips will help you enjoy your home in the fall and winter months.
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