As the crisp air of fall begins to replace the summer heat, it’s the perfect time to prepare your home for the new season. At Murray Company, Realtors, we understand the importance of maintaining and enhancing your home to ensure it remains a comfortable and inviting space all year round. Continue reading for eight essential tips to help you get your home ready for fall:
1. Inspect and Clean Gutters
Falling leaves are a beautiful sign of autumn, but they can quickly clog your gutters. Clogged gutters can lead to water damage and other issues. Make sure to clean out debris such as leaves, twigs, and other blockages from your gutters and downspouts. Inspect your gutters for any signs of damage or leaks and make necessary repairs. Consider installing gutter guards to prevent future clogs and reduce maintenance. This is a great investment to make and can save you money in the long run.
2. Maintain Outdoor Equipment
Additionally, be sure to take the time to care for your outdoor equipment. Clean and store lawnmowers, trimmers, and other summer tools. Put a covering on any outdoor furniture when you do not plan to use it.
3. Prepare Your Lawn and Garden
On a more exciting note, autumn is also the time to prepare your outdoor spaces for winter and set the stage for a beautiful spring. Regularly remove leaves from your lawn to keep your grass healthy. Apply fall fertilizer and reseed bare patches to promote strong root growth. Trim back dead or overgrown branches from trees and shrubs to prevent damage during winter storms. Again, you could rely on a local expert or landscaping team for this, but do keep it in mind.
4. Check the Roof
Next, your roof may just be the most important part of your home, as it protects your home from the outdoors. It’s crucial to ensure the roof is in good condition before the harsher weather arrives. Inspect the roof, looking for missing, damaged, or loose shingles, and repair or replace them as needed. Ensure flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights is secure and intact. If this is out of your comfort zone or realm of knowledge, it is worth investing in an annual roof inspection from local experts.
5. Prepare Your Heating System
As temperatures drop, you’re going to rely more on your heater. Ensure your home’s heating system is in good shape by scheduling a professional inspection to check. Replace old air filters to improve air quality and system efficiency. Test your thermostats to ensure they’re working correctly and set them for energy savings. Consider investing in a smart home thermostat that allows you to manage temperatures through an app and even schedule default settings for certain times of day.
6. Seal Windows and Doors
Drafty windows and doors can lead to higher energy bills and lower comfort. Inspect seals and caulking around windows and doors, and reseal any gaps or cracks with weatherstripping or caulk. If you have storm windows, install them to provide an extra layer of insulation. You can also place draft stoppers at the base of doors to prevent cold air from entering.
7. Enhance Indoor Comfort and Coziness
Fall is the perfect time to make your home feel cozy and inviting. Swap out lightweight summer linens for cozy blankets, throws, and area rugs. Incorporate autumn colors and natural elements like pumpkins, gourds, and fall foliage into your decor. You can even create a welcoming entryway by placing a seasonal wreath on your door and adding a new doormat to catch dirt and leaves.
8. Safety Checks
Finally, ensure your home is safe and secure for the season. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, replacing batteries and ensuring all detectors are functioning properly. Check expiration dates on fire extinguishers and ensure they are accessible and in good condition. Update your emergency kit with essentials like flashlights, batteries, and a first aid kit.
Contact Us
By following these tips, you can enjoy a comfortable, safe, and beautiful home throughout the fall season.
At Murray Company Realtors, we’re here to help you with all your real estate needs. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or invest, our team is dedicated to providing you with expert advice and personalized service.
Call us today at (770) 227-8661 to get connected!
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