Ahhh, can you smell it? Autumn is in the air, and we couldn’t be happier. But whether it’s your first fall in your new home, or you’ve already got your system down pat, one of the best things you can do for the longevity of your property is think about it piece by piece.
Some of it’s easy enough to handle in an afternoon. Other considerations might call for the expert’s touch. Here’s the way we see it:
1. Call a pro for your gutters and downspouts
While you wouldn’t think your gutters would clog until later in the fall, the truth is that twigs, debris and other objects have now had an entire summer to nestle their way in. Schedule your first cleanout for the beginning of fall, and have a professional take a look at the state of your drainage system. If your downspouts aren’t pointing far enough from your house, or are improperly pitched after being jostled or warped through the warmer months, you could be dealing with unnecessary buildups by the time October rolls around.
2. Call a pro for your trees and bushes
Mulch, trim and hedge as much as you can to keep your plants in the best health possible before the temperature drops. You’ll want them to gain as many nutrients as possible during the buildup to winter, so by the time spring rolls around, you won’t be starting from scratch.
3. DIY your sidewalks and driveways
Brush off any dirt, clippings or debris that’ve piled up on your non-porous surfaces over the course of summer and give everything a good once-over. Cracks? Erosion? Impact damage? Try to get it all sealed and rehabbed before the cold fronts blow in, as the ground grows less forgiving.
4. DIY your decks and patios
A power washing or spot cleaning is likely in order after a long summer of cookouts and kickbacks. Give it a good scrub, and consider resealing if you have a wood deck or any permeable areas. Make sure you’re sweeping regularly—it’s easy for wet leaves to leave stains and imprints over time.
5. DIY your windows and doors
Check for drafts around all your entrances and egresses. In older houses, it’s likely your doors and windows will have shifted or chipped over a lifetime, and this often means there’s some avenue or another for the cold air to work its way in. Weatherstripping and door sweeps are simple, easy-to-install solutions that can help increase your home’s comfort and ease your heating bill at the same time.
6. DIY your sheds and garages
Beyond the cobwebs stacking up, it’s important to check every nook and cranny of your unattached spaces to make sure no grime, fungus or nests are building. If any part has been exposed to the summer heatwaves and rain storms, make sure you’re clear of rot, splintering or separation.
7. Call a pro for your fireplaces and stoves
Make sure you give everything a good wipedown before you light the first flame. Inspect any and all gaskets or potential leaks: if you have a wood-burning chimney, we recommend you find a local professional for a quick tuneup. It won’t cost much, and it’s worth the piece of mind knowing that both the interior and exterior are in good shape.
