10 Ways to Prepare Your Home For Fall
Being a homeowner is a full-time job. There is always something to do. As the summer comes to a close, it's time to start thinking about the fall and how to prepare your home for it.
1. Exterior Home Maintenance
Fall is the perfect time to perform much-needed maintenance tasks around the home. Inspect your gutters and downspouts and clean them out to prevent leaves and debris from clogging them. Check for any cracks or holes in your foundation and repair them. Inspect your roof for any damage and repairs that may be needed. Check your windows and doors to make sure they aren't damaged. Damaged doors and windows may lead to leaks in the rainy fall weather.
2. Heating System
Get your heating system serviced by a professional before winter arrives. This will help ensure that it is running efficiently and safely. Did you know that an HVAC system that is regularly serviced may last longer? This includes changing your air filter regularly. Keep in mind that pet owners need to change their air filters even more often.
3. Home Insulation
Do you remember how cold you were last winter? Don't spend another cold winter in your home. Check your home's insulation levels and add more if necessary. This will help keep your home warm in the winter months and cooler in the summer. It may also save you money on your electric and gas bill.
4. Caulking and Weather-stripping
Check the caulking around your windows and doors and repair or replace it as needed. Also, check the weather-stripping around your doors and windows and replace it if it is worn out. Taking these steps can help you be more comfortable all year long and may help you keep a little extra money in your wallet.
5. Fireplaces and Chimneys
If you have a fireplace, have it inspected and cleaned by a professional before using it for the first time in the fall. Also, check your chimney for any blockages or damage. This is one of the most important steps you can take for the safety of your family and home. Chimney fires are responsible for thousands of dollars in damage each year. Worse still, they are responsible for hundreds of deaths.
Did you know that we work closely with chimney companies throughout the year? If you would like a recommendation for a company you can trust, call us today.
6. Lawn Care
Fall is the time to start thinking about next year's lawn care. Fertilize your lawn now so that it will be healthy and green come spring. Also, start planning where you will plant next year's garden.
If you are looking for a locally-owned landscaping company to help you, contact us. We partner with some of the best landscaping companies in Maryland.
7. Home Security
As the days get shorter and the nights get longer, it's important to make sure your home is secure. Check all of your locks and make sure they are working properly. Also, consider installing a security system or adding additional lighting around your home.
Today's security systems are smarter than ever. With the right system, you can set your lights to turn on before you get home from work, monitor your doors and windows from your phone, and even unlock the door for your most forgetful child.
8. Emergency Supplies
Fall is the perfect time to stock up on emergency supplies. Make sure you have plenty of non-perishable food and water on hand in case of a power outage or other emergency. Also, keep a first-aid kit handy and be sure to know how to use it. Although the pandemic is over, we are all too aware of the dangers of being unprepared. Remember the great toilet paper shortage of 2020?
9. Home Organization
Fall is the perfect time to get your home organized before the holiday season arrives. The kids are back in school and your schedule is about to go from 0 to 60 in less than a few days. Get ready by going through each room of your house and decluttering. Donate items that you no longer need or use. Also, take this opportunity to deep clean your home from top to bottom. We work with several halfway houses that may need some things you no longer do. Let us know if you are looking for places for your gently used items.
10. Winterize Your Home
If you can only do one thing to prepare for the colder weather ahead, take steps now to winterize your home so that it will be ready for the cold weather ahead. Seal any cracks or holes in your windows and doors. Insulate any exposed pipes. Also, make sure your gutters are clean and clear of leaves and debris. By taking these simple steps, you can help protect your home from the winter weather.
We know that you want to enjoy the last days of summer with your family. We are here to lighten the load. Give us a call today for a Yearly Weatherization Inspection at 443-690-3493