While the leaves may not be changing just yet, they’re about to – and that means it’s time to pack up the swimsuits and tackle all your early fall projects to prep your home for winter.
The Fall Homeowner’s Checklist
Now is the perfect time to have your fireplace cleaned and inspected, and while you’re at it, have your heating system checked out.
You’ll need to circle around your home’s exterior and make note of the things that you need inspected, repaired or “worked on.”
Check for:
- Issues with your masonry
- Patches in your lawn that could use some extra TLC
- Cracks in the driveway, walkways or steps
- Missing shingles
- Clogged gutters
- Issues with weather-stripping
Experts say that it’s best to repair all the issues you can before winter hits, because snow, ice and frigid temperatures can wreak havoc on your home.
You’ll want to spread some fertilizer on the lawn, make sure your pool cover is in good shape and double-check that your shovels, roof rakes and snow blowers are easily accessible.
Finally, you’ll need to make sure you’re not experiencing any issues with your water system and plumbing. Drain your garden hoses and, as soon as you can, shut off your outdoor water valves so you don’t have to worry about frozen pipes.
Other tips:
- Fill bird feeders. Once you begin feeding birds, the only right thing to do is to continue doing so throughout the winter.
- Empty soil from clay pots and planters. If the dirt freezes inside a clay pot, the pot can crack.
- Double-check the railings on all your steps. Make sure that they are strong enough to support someone who slips on an icy patch.
Want to Skip Home Maintenance?
You always have the option of buying a new Hughes Edwards home. We can create a custom home that you will love, and you won’t need to worry about winter maintenance until next year.
Call us at 615-824-6970 or contact us online to tell us what you’re looking for. We’d love to help you create the perfect space.
