With the change of seasons, homeowners must complete a checklist of tasks to ensure their residences remain safe, functional, and comfortable. As we near the end of Fall, it’s time to prepare your home for the often harsh winter months. While tasks like having the HVAC serviced and winterizing the windows and doors are at the top of the list, many homeowners forget an essential step – taking care of their yards.
Most people assume that once the grass, trees, plants, and flowers die, there’s nothing left to do until Spring. However, that’s not the case. Your home’s exterior and surroundings need to be taken care of to prevent damage and maintain curb appeal. If you’re unsure of where to begin, consider these suggestions below.
Inspect Trees
The winter is well-known for its vicious storms. The heavy winds, freezing temperatures, sleet, snow, and hail can wreak havoc on trees, causing substantial damage to your lawn and property. Therefore, you should inspect to ensure the trees are intact. If you notice hanging limbs or rotting trees, schedule an arborist to come out and trim or cut the trees to keep you, your loved ones, and the property safe.
Roof And Gutter Maintenance
Your roofing and gutter systems are integral parts of your home. The last thing you want is to deal with foundation troubles, leaks, or water damage in the winter. Hire a roofing company to clean the gutters, inspect and repair the roof, and complete chimney maintenance.
Tend To Your Garden
Next, tend to your garden. Now is the time to remove dead crops, pull weeds, prune perennials, and plant any new crops you desire. You should also animal-proof your garden to keep unwanted visitors from attacking your crops.
Toys And Playsets
Store and winterize your children’s toys and playsets. Remove the hoop from the basketball stand and detach the swings from the playground. Place a cover over stand-alone houses and sandboxes. Wooden playsets should be cleaned and sealed to protect them from damage.
Close Up The Pool
Above and inground pools need to be well maintained and secured for the winter. Clean the pool and balance the water. Lower the water levels. Then clean the filter and drain the pump, filters, heaters, and other equipment. Lastly, empty the chemical feeder and cover the pool. If you have a fence, ensure it’s locked to keep your kids safe.
Secure Or Store Patio Furniture
Unless you have durable pieces like Harbor Classic’s all weather wicker patio furniture, you’ll need to find a place to store your tables, chairs, and accessories before the winter begins to prevent them from being damaged. Clear out a space in your shed, basement, attic, or garage and store your lawn furniture, yard tools, and outdoor grill.
Lawn Care
Rake the leaves and discard any twigs and debris. Then, cut your grass one last time and aerate and fertilize the ground to ensure your lawn is healthy in the spring. Then redecorate the lawn with seasonal flowers, planters, and ornaments. If your yard is particularly dark at night, you can install landscape lights to illuminate the pathways and provide security.
Seal Cracks
While most people remember to winterize the interior of their homes, they often forget the exterior. If you want to ensure that your home remains warm and pests stay out, you’ll want to seal any visible holes or cracks on your residence’s exterior. Windows, doors, and garages are the best places to inspect. Use caulk or weathering strips to seal the holes and cracks. If necessary, have your windows and doors replaced with more efficient options.
Winter is just around the corner. Although you already have a laundry list of things to do and a hectic schedule, you shouldn’t overlook your home’s exterior and surroundings. Add the above tasks to your home maintenance checklist to ensure you, your family, and your property remain safe all season long.
