Showing posts with label fall home projects. Show all posts
Showing posts with label fall home projects. Show all posts

Easy Fall Prep



Over the past week, warmer temperatures had it feeling more like summer than autumn. Nonetheless, it is fall and the chilly nights are here, soon to be followed by cooler days. Early fall is the prime time to do some housekeeping to ensure an organized and equipped home.

Clean up and clear out

Seasonal tools take up valuable space in garages and sheds. Take inventory of what you no longer need, or what you can swap out. Make rakes and leaf blowers accessible and put the planters away for the spring. Make use of shelving units to organize your space.

Lawn and garden

Prepping your lawn and garden might not be instantly gratifying, but you’ll thank yourself in the spring. Plus, the cooler weather means less sweat! Rake out old plants and seed bare spots in the grass. Adding a winter fertilizer will help guard against the cold. Top is off with pruning and mulching for the fall and planting bulbs for the spring.

Clear the way

Inspect your walkways to ensure proper drainage and even footing. Any dips will mean mud and pooling water in the fall and icy patches in the winter. With shorter days, consider adding some lighting to entrances – it can add to curb appeal and safety.


Is your fireplace ready for fall?

Although the weather may not have turned cool enough for a fire, it's the perfect time of year to schedule a chimney inspection. Having a certified inspection performed annually in combination with regular cleanings ensures your family and home stays safe and warm.

Here are some tips to keep in mind as we approach the heating season:
  • Close the damper in the flue when the fireplace isn't being used.
  • Keep fireplace enclosed with a metal screen and the surrounding area free of flammable materials.
  • Use glass doors properly: leave them open while fire is burning and closed once the fire is out.
  • Burn seasoned firewood only: damp wood encourages buildup, while paper, cardboard, etc., presents a danger.
  • Make sure each floor of your home has a functioning smoke detector.
  • Protect your home's exterior by keeping wood stacked away from the siding and the roof free of debris.
  • Never leave a fire unattended.
Get many more fire safety tips from the U.S. Fire Administration's website.