Fall is ideal for getting outside and enjoying the weather, but it’s also a great time to make repairs and upgrades before winter hits. Here are five fall home improvement projects to help you make the most of this season. Whether taking advantage of cooler temperatures to replace worn-out siding or ensuring the gutters can handle the rain and snow, these tasks will help you maintain and prepare your home for fall.
5 Ways to Prepare Your Home for Fall
1. Upgrade the Insulation
As the weather cools, make sure temperature-controlled air doesn’t escape your home. Adding or replacing insulation is a great fall project to reduce heating costs. Insulation keeps your home warm by trapping air inside, making it harder for heat to escape through the walls, ceiling, or floor. You can add insulation to your attic, walls, or basement at a reasonable cost, and it’s an easy project to tackle on your own. Ensure the attic insulation is up to code, and consult a professional who can advise on the best type of insulation for your home.
2. Maintain the Gutters
Leaves, dirt, and other debris can clog your gutters, leading to water backup and damage to your home’s roof and foundation. Removing debris from the gutters helps prevent these issues, and it’s an easy DIY project that can save you money in the long run. Wear gloves and eye protection when cleaning gutters, and use a sturdy ladder to reach high areas.
3. Replace Siding to Prepare Your Home for Fall
Fall is an excellent time to replace old or damaged siding. Cooler temperatures make it easier to work outside, and it’s a job that instantly boosts your home’s appearance. Replace the siding with insulated vinyl to improve your home’s energy efficiency, reduce heating costs, and protect against moisture and pests. Good quality siding can last decades and is a significant investment in your home’s curb appeal and value.
4. Seal Drafts
Sealing drafts is a common fall home improvement project for a reason. It greatly affects your home’s comfort level and reduces your heating costs. Drafts can occur around windows, doors, vents, and attic spaces. Check for leaks by lighting a candle and moving it around the edges of these areas. If the flame flickers, there is airflow in the area, and you may need to seal an opening. Caulk, weatherstripping, and door sweeps are affordable solutions to block drafts, better insulating your home.
5. Update the Lighting
As the days get shorter, update your lighting to add warmth and brightness to your home. Upgrade to energy-efficient LED bulbs and install a dimmer switch for more flexibility in controlling the illumination. Add light fixtures or lamps to darker areas of your home, such as the basement or laundry room. Lighting improvements boost your home’s ambiance, save money on electricity bills, boost your mood, and significantly impact your daily life.
Fall is a great time to tackle home improvement projects before winter. With the milder temperatures, homeowners can make repairs and upgrades before cold weather arrives. These projects save you money on energy bills, improve your home’s appearance and function, and provide a more comfortable home.
Second Opinion Home Inspections provides inspections to homebuyers and sellers in Door and Kewaunee counties. Contact us to request our services.