Winter is Coming: Fall Clean-up Tips
It’s the time of year many of us dread – fall clean up. There is so much to do to prepare for winter now, before the days get shorter and the inevitable first snowfall covers everything outside. Here are some tips for getting your home’s exterior ready for winter.
1. Yard & Garden
Trim trees and shrubs, rake leaves and put away outdoor furniture.
2. Gutters
Once most of the leaves have fallen, clean out gutters and downspouts (hire a helper if you are not comfortable on a ladder). Clogged gutters during rainstorms can cause water to pool and damage your roof or siding.
3. Repairs & Critters
Walk around your property, looking for signs of damage to the roof, siding and foundation. If you spot anything that needs repair, schedule it right away. Fill small holes and cover any larger gaps to keep the wildlife outdoors. Mice need only a tiny gap to be able to sneak into your house and raid your pantry. With colder weather coming, little critters will be looking for warm places to make a home.
4. Faucets & Hoses
Protect your pipes from freezing temperatures by turning off the exterior water supply from inside and leaving the outside tap open. Drain hoses and store them inside.
5. Weatherstripping
Apply around the window and door frames to help stay warm and cut energy costs. Add door sweeps to the base of drafty doors to keep heat in and cold out.
6. Winter Supplies
Check the condition of shovels and scrapers, pick up a bag of ice melt, service your snow blower and make sure you have fuel.
7. Exterior Photos
If you are considering selling your home next spring, now is the time to take photos of the exterior of your home while the plants and flowers look their best. Call your agent and ask them to send their photographer now so the photos are ready whenever you are!
Thanksgiving weekend is the perfect time to get a jump start on preparing your exterior for the inevitability of the months ahead. Then you can sit back and enjoy the holiday season!
Debbie Braun, Realtor at Keller Williams
