Winter is just around the corner, and it’s time to get ready for colder temperatures, invasive pests, and clutter removal to make way for the holidays. The following tips can help you organize your worklist to make speedy, efficient progress.
Exterior Repairs
Organize a yard cleanup day to remove twigs and branches along with fallen leaves. Stack the debris at the curb for pickup if that service is available. Otherwise, put everything into bags for regular trash removal. Put away the yard toys. Inspect your home’s external features, like the foundation, fencing, patio, and shed for signs of extreme wear or damage. Arrange for repairs before bad weather sets in. Check your roof for missing shingles or gutter damage and contact a roof repair contractor for an estimate on any needed work.
Indoor Home Cleaning
Plan a deep fall cleaning for each part of your home, tackling one area or room at a time. Wipe down walls with a damp cloth, scrub the floors with appropriate cleaners. Have the fabric furniture and draperies professionally cleaned unless you can do it. Removing the accumulated dust from the open windows of summer will make your home feel fresher and remove the allergens that have built up over the past several months. Put away unneeded items to open up space for indoor winter activities like games and reading.
Utility Inspections
Fall is a good time of year to have your furnace and AC checked to ensure everything is working properly. You don’t want to wait and have a heating unit break down during a cold winter night when emergency service will cost more. If you have questions about your electric or plumbing, have those checked by experts as well.
Necessary Repairs
Flooring, cupboards, windows, and doors should also be checked to see if repairs are needed. For example, the doors and windows may need new weather sealing trim if the current seal is deteriorating or damaged. Equipment and appliances like the stove or refrigerator that are not working effectively can be checked and repaired or replaced as needed. Broken furniture and discarded clothing or toys could be dropped off at the thrift store for a donor receipt in time to include on your tax filings.
Enjoy the great feeling of making your home more functional, attractive, and efficient by completing these tasks. Then you’ll be ready to relax and enjoy the cozy and festive winter season.
