Fall can be an inspirational time. The changing seasons remind you that it’s time to store up and pare down for winter. How can you best direct this energy into improving your home?
Now’s the time to take care of minor issues that could become major headaches if they’re left to extreme weather. It’s also time to clear the clutter and make space for the new. What should you add to your autumn to-do list? Here are eight home improvements for the fall season.
1. Clean the Gutters and Inspect the Roof
The roof over your head keeps out the elements, but it can’t do its job without routine maintenance. Your number one task is to clean out your gutters. Why? Clogged gutters can lead to water accumulation on your roof, dripping water inside your walls, mold, and possibly electrical fires.
While you’re on the ladder, inspect your roof. Look for:
- Areas of moss and algae: These indicate potential leaks.
- Curled or broken tile or shingles: You may be able to replace these yourself.
- Leaks in the attic: Call the pros if you see signs of water infiltration.
When seeking a contractor, look for one specializing in your roof type, such as metal or asphalt shingles. You want peace of mind, and good-quality installations can last for decades.
2. Waterproof Your Basement
Here’s the good news: You don’t have to panic if you occasionally see moisture on your basement walls after a rainy spell. That’s because even well-constructed foundations often develop small cracks during settling that allow water to enter. It isn’t necessarily indicative of bigger problems.
Wait until your basement is completely dry to avoid electrical shock. Begin by filling in cracks with hydraulic cement, taking particular care to address window wells. If your walls are bare, follow this treatment with a masonry waterproofing sealant before painting. You might also consider installing drainage if you get so much water that your floor tends to flood.
Your basement will feel much warmer in winter, which is crucial if you use it as a living space. It will also reduce overall dampness in your home and prevent mold.
3. Upgrade Your Facade
If you have peeling paint everywhere, you might take advantage of early fall’s balmy weather to redo your entire exterior. The best temperatures for tackling this task are between 50° and 70° Fahrenheit.
However, if your home doesn’t look too shabby, a quick blast with a power washer could be all the uplift you need. Why stop there, though, if you crave a different look? Adding a striking hue to your front door and shutters doesn’t take much time or money and can transform your entire facade.
4. Organize and Insulate Your Garage
When you ask homebuyers what they seek, a well-organized garage space invariably makes their wishlists. You’ll also hear less grumbling from picky neighbors when you leave your door open and feel happier pulling into your home.
Fortunately, it’s simple for even novice DIYers to hang a pegboard for organizing gardening and household tools. A locking cabinet or two keeps hazardous products like antifreeze away from kids and pets. A few high shelves around the perimeter can serve a similar purpose while deterring crawling pests somewhat.
5. Clean Up Your Lawn and Garden
Does your lawn look like a toy chest exploded after a summer of play? Now’s the time to invest in sleek storage solutions – perhaps in your newly remodeled garage? – to stow that stuff for winter.
It’s also the time to prepare your lawn and garden. Are you sick of losing every sunny Saturday to the lawnmower? Xeriscaping is far friendlier to the planet and eliminates many of your maintenance needs. Take your free time back by ripping up that sod now and covering it with wood chips or gravel so any seeds die over the winter, then replace it with native vegetation and decorative stone in the spring.
6. Touch Up Your Interior Paint
The approaching holidays mean guests. Do you want them to see your child’s crayon mural? If not, take a weekend to touch up your interior paint. Lighter colors brighten most rooms, making them wise choices as winter’s short days approach.
However, that’s not to say you can’t go dark. A striking accent wall gives you a place to display your family photos with style. Who says everything has to conform? Perhaps the right area for a decorative mural is your child’s bedroom – you can help them stay within the lines.
7. Maintain Your HVAC
Maintaining your HVAC system is crucial to your family’s health. According to the EPA, changing your filters helps eliminate airborne contaminants that can make you sick. Furthermore, it decreases allergens, letting you sleep more comfortably at night without waking up with a stuffy nose.
You should swap your filter every three months, although more often is better if you have pets or smokers in the home. Should you get your ducts cleaned? It depends – you might want to have it done if you don’t know the property’s condition before your tenancy or how well the prior occupants maintained the system.
8. Bundle Up Your Pipes
A burst pipe can be a nightmare. Nothing ruins a holiday vacation like coming home to a mess. Protect your investment by wrapping your pipes in insulating foam sleeves, paying particular attention to the joints.
If you go away for the holidays, please keep your thermostat set to at least 55° to prevent freezing. It’s also wise to leave a faucet dripping to maintain flow and avoid freezing in those areas you can’t readily access.
Home Improvements for the Fall Season
The changing seasons remind you that it’s time to spruce up your home for winter. How can you prepare for the coming cold? Consider the above home improvements for the fall season. You’ll nestle into winter, feeling cozy and secure in your upgraded abode.