Fall is just around the corner, so it’s time to start getting your home ready for the change in season. You can do many things to prepare your home for fall, from cleaning out your gutters to changing your window treatments. This blog post will discuss some of the most important things you need to do to get your home ready for fall.
1) Start with a deep clean:
One of the best ways to prepare your home for fall is to start with a deep clean. This means taking care of all those big cleaning tasks that you may have been putting off all summer long. Dusting, vacuuming, mopping, and scrubbing your floors and surfaces will make your home look and feel cleaner and help remove any allergens that could cause problems during the colder months.
If you don’t have time to do a deep clean yourself, there’s no shame in hiring a professional cleaning service. Just be sure to schedule them for a time when you’ll be able to be home so they can get started right away.
2) Clean gutters:
Your gutters play an essential role in protecting your home from water damage, and they need to be clear of debris to function properly. Cleaning your gutters at least once a year – preferably in the fall – will help prevent costly repairs down the road.
To clean your gutters:
- Start by removing all the debris using a garden hose or a small hand-held vacuum.
- Once the gutters are clear, flush them out with clean water to remove any remaining dirt or grit.
- Inspect the gutters for any signs of damage and repair as necessary.
3) Inspect your roof:
Your roof is one of the most critical components of your home, so it’s important to inspect it regularly for any signs of damage. Fall is an excellent time to do this because you want to make sure your roof is in good condition before the winter weather sets in.
Start by checking for any missing or damaged shingles. If you find any, replace them as soon as possible. Next, look for any cracks or holes in the flashing – the metal strips that seal the edges of your roof. These must also be repaired; otherwise, water could leak into your home. Finally, check the gutters and downspouts to make sure they’re clear and functioning properly.
4) Bring in outside furniture:
You’ll want to spend more time outdoors as the weather cools down. But that doesn’t mean your outdoor furniture has to suffer. Instead, bring in any outside furniture that you can and store it in a dry, safe place. This will prolong its life and prevent it from becoming damaged by the elements.
5) Check your windows and doors:
One of the biggest causes of heat loss in homes is poorly sealed windows and doors. Take a walk around your home and check your windows and doors to ensure they’re properly sealed. If you find any that are drafty, consider replacing them with new, more energy-efficient models. You may also want to add weather-stripping or caulking around doors and windows to reduce drafts further.
6) Invest in home heating oil:
If you live in an area where home heating oil is used, now is the time to invest in a supply. Home heating oil prices typically go up in the winter, so buying early can help you save money. Using companies like Woolley Fuel ensures fantastic quality oil and reliable services, alongside great prices. You can check out Woolley Home Solutions to see if fuel or heating oil is best for your home. In addition, most suppliers will offer a discount if you buy in bulk, so it’s worth considering if you have the storage space.
Just be sure to buy from a reputable supplier such as Tri Gas & Oil and have your tank professionally installed to avoid any problems down the road.
7) Prepare your fireplace:
If you have a fireplace, it is time to prepare it for the colder months. Start by having it inspected and cleaned by a professional. This will help ensure that your fireplace is safe to use and in good working condition.
You should also stock up on firewood to have it on hand when you need it. If you plan on burning logs in your fireplace, use only seasoned wood that has been adequately dried. Wet or green wood can produce a lot of smoke and creosote build-up, which can be dangerous. Also, ensure your chimney is clear of debris before using your fireplace this season. A blocked chimney can cause carbon monoxide to build up in your home, which can be very dangerous.
8) Service your furnace:
Your furnace is one of the essential equipment in your home, so it must be in good working condition. To help ensure this, have your furnace serviced by a professional before the start of the heating season. This will help keep it running smoothly and prevent any unexpected breakdowns.
It’s also a good idea to change your furnace filter regularly. A dirty filter can reduce the efficiency of your furnace and cause it to work harder than necessary. Most filters should be changed every few months, but be sure to check yours for specific instructions.
9) Insulate your home:
One of the best ways to prepare your home for winter is to make sure it’s properly insulated. This will help keep the heat in and the cold out, saving you money on your energy bills.
There are a few different ways to insulate your home, but one of the most effective is to add insulation to your attic. This can be done yourself or by hiring a professional insulation contractor. Just be sure to use the proper type of insulation for your attic space – fiberglass batts or rolls are typically used in this area. Another way to improve the insulation in your home is to caulk any gaps or cracks around doors and windows. This will help prevent drafts and further reduce heat loss.
You may also want to consider adding window film to your windows. This can help reduce heat loss and make your home more comfortable during the colder months.
By following these tips, you can prepare your home for the fall season and make it more comfortable and energy-efficient. Just remember to take things slowly and focus on one area at a time.
