Well, it’s definitely Fall now. We recently had a couple of mornings with lows in the 30s and a few days where the highs didn’t make it out of the 50s. Although we may still experience an occasional warm day, that bite in the air is greeting us more days than not. I know many who find Spring or Summer to be their favorite seasons, but Fall happens to be my favorite. I love the crisp air and colorful foliage but no matter what you prefer, we can’t deny the change of the seasons in this part of the country.
So as homeowners or renters, this is a time when you should prepare your home for colder temperatures, in order to keep more comfortable and to keep heating bills manageable. The following is by no means a comprehensive list, but these are a few projects most can easily handle.
- Weather Stripping around doors and windows – Obviously, this keeps cold air from seeping into your home. Caulking is also an option in some locations.
- If you don’t utilize one of those gutter cover products (there are many brands), then you really ought to ensure you clean your gutters of falling leaves. I find the easiest way to accomplish this, is to use a leaf blower on a dry day. I personally can’t safely get to my 2nd floor gutters, but I’m lucky that a majority of my leaves don’t fall that high. You should ensure that rain flows through your gutters and you need your downspouts to direct water away from the foundation of your home.
- In most of WV, we don’t usually get huge amounts of snow, but just in case we do in a particular year, it would behoove a homeowner to have a snow roof rake. I remember during a couple of blizzards in the late 70s, watching my father get much of the snow weight off of our roof.
- Consider insulating your pipes in unheated areas, to prevent a potential disaster during extreme cold.
- I’ve never broken down by purchasing a snow blower since it’s rare that we get massive snow. I do, however, ensure I have my shovels and a supply of Rock Salt, Ice Melt or a similar product. One thing some homeowners forget is that your mail carrier and delivery services need a safe path to get to your home. Also, if a medical emergency were to occur to someone in your home, EMTs may need quick and safe access in order to save the life of someone in your family!
- Of course, having good insulation in your attic or even in your walls, can be incredibly beneficial when it comes to energy efficiency.
Again, this is just a few things to consider as colder weather begins to set in. There are some quality home improvement shows on radio and tv and you can find many great videos online. Take care of your home! Maybe I’ll see you at the hardware store on Saturday morning!