The arrival of fall means many things, one of which being that we are one season closer to winter. It’s important to enjoy the fall season while it’s here, but it’s also important to get your home ready for winter’s harsh conditions. Here are some things you can do on the weekends in the fall to make sure you and your home are prepared come winter.
Seal Gaps
You’re not the only one who wants to hunker down inside for the winter; wild critters will seek out the warmth of your home too, so make sure there are no gaps, holes, or tears in your home. It’s probably a good idea to have a professional come in and seal your house, not just to keep animals and cold air out, but keep warm air in.
Do Some Proactive Landscaping
Although you might not think, fall is actually the perfect time to think about how you want your garden to look come springtime. Planting spring-blooming bulbs and fertilizing and reseeding your lawn is the perfect activity for a cool fall day - their roots will grow deeper into the ground over the winter and they will emerge in the spring, giving you a lush and plentiful lawn to start off the season. Another proactive measure you can take is pruning trees and bushes to encourage growth while also pruning any branches that may be likely to fall on your house or power lines once the snow has fallen.
Check Heating Systems
Fall is the perfect time to make sure your heating system is working properly before it gets too cold - you don’t want to be stuck with a broken heater on the morning after the first snowfall. This could involve changing the filter, cleaning out your air ducts and/or chimney, and having a professional check for efficiency. It could also be beneficial to consider switching to a green heating system, like a heat pump, that will save you money and reduce your carbon footprint in the long run.
Drain Hoses and Outdoor Water Systems
As we know, water freezing in the winter can cause a lot of pipe damage. To avoid this, make sure you shut off the water to any outdoor faucets or water systems you have. Drain your garden hose and store it inside until the spring, and make sure the water is turned off at the source.
Do a Deep Clean
The change of season is always a good excuse to give your house a good clean. This means doing all the nitty gritty stuff that you wouldn’t do regularly, like scrubbing grout from tiles, cleaning the inside of kitchen appliances, cleaning light fixtures, and washing the walls and floors. If you feel overwhelmed at the prospect of cleaning your whole house, ask a friend to help, or start out by cleaning one room. You’ll thank yourself later when you have the rest of the winter to relax in your spotless home.
If you're thinking about buying or selling a home in Greater Boston, contact Barrett Sotheby's International Realty today.
