10 Ultimate Fall Ideas to get your home ready for Winter!
It’s time Michiganders. We know that our weather can be unpredictable, and in October, cold, wind, and rain remind us that winter is around the corner. Now is your opportunity to take the initiative, get outside, and get your home ready for the winter months.
Remember that your home is one of your greatest assets! Check out the following ideas and pro tips to keep your home in the right condition.
-
Clean the gutters and downspouts to keep rain runoff away from the foundation. This will help prevent ice damming and potential water in the basement when the spring thaw happens next year.
-
Rake and remove leaves and other debris from your lawn ideally before there is lots of rain.
PRO TIP: We purchased a blower with a battery pack this year have to tell you it has been a back saver! Dewalt Power Tools -
Prune trees, and shrubs, and remove deadfall to help keep things looking nice and away from the roof.
-
Cut limbs away from your home that could cause damage from high winds and winter storms.
-
Clean the flower and vegetable garden beds so they are ready for next year’s plantings.
-
Drain exterior faucets and winterize irrigation systems and pools, if applicable. Tagging the shut-off lines inside your home will remind you when you completed this and where to easily access to turn on in the Spring.
-
Check the roof and chimney. Careful! Heights can be tricky. Consider having a professional look for damaged, loose, or missing shingles or flashing that may leak during winter storms or cause ice damming.
-
Seal and caulk all plumbing, electrical, air conditioner lines going into the home. This helps with energy efficiency and to keep mice and other pests away.
PRO TIP: Using a little steel wood and plumbers’ putty will seal it up nicely. -
Inspect and repair/replace weather stripping and seals around exterior and garage doors to keep unwanted pests or rodents away.
-
Remove and store screens and install storm doors where needed, in addition, store or cover your outdoor furniture to preserve their condition and functionality.
SUPER PRO TIP: Before you take on any of these tasks, be qualified and able to do it. Consider having a professional who is knowledgeable and experienced in any of the areas in question.
Always practice safety first, and when in doubt, hire it out!
Owning a home is one of the greatest investments you will make in your lifetime. And, if you follow these practical steps, it will make a big difference in the overall condition and appeal of your home. You will also have a greater sense of pride and appreciation that you are protecting and preserving your home’s value and $$$ growth opportunity. In the long run, you might even save some money also. What is my home worth?
TEN Ideas to help you keep and maintain your home to as close to a TEN as possible. Your home will thank you and pay you back in the end!
Authored by: Lisa Fletcher, Associate Broker, Real Estate Agent in Michigan.