The dog days of summer are long gone. The chill is in the air announcing fall’s arrival. As the days grow shorter, it’s time to move through your autumn checklist to keep your property running smoothly through the cold winter months.
Landscape & Garden
- Bring houseplants in and use Neem Oil to kill any bugs tagging along. Also, a good time to repot plants that have outgrown their container.
- Uproot and compost dead annuals.
- Cut back perennials, splitting when you can.
- Rake beds to remove debris, then top dress with 1-2” of compost.
- Apply ~3” of bark mulch to your beds for weed control and winter protection.
- Aerate, fertilize, and over-seed your lawn, give extra attention to the patchy areas.
- Plant spring flowering bulbs.
Exterior
- Inspect the foundation for cracks.
- Caulk around doors and windows and wires entering the home.
- Install storm windows and doors; clean screens before storing in a dry place.
- Check the house siding. Look for peeling paint, a tell-tale sign the exterior needs attention.
- Double check the roof is in good condition, no dangling or missing shingles.
- Weather strip the garage door, easy way to prevent heat loss or water from sneaking in.
- Inspect the driveway for cracks. Repair any damage with driveway filler, then coat with a commercial sealer.
- Bring the patio furniture inside.
- Drain outdoor faucets, store garden houses.
Interior
- Schedule an annual tune-up for the heating system, you don’t want to be suddenly without heat in the middle of a New England Nor’Easter.
- Change the batteries in the smoke and carbon dioxide detectors and keep extra batteries on hand.
- Get the fireplace in working order. Check the seals and have the chimney cleaned. A clogged chimney poses the risk of a fire.
Cold weather, snow, and ice can be really hard on your house.
Check these items off your to-do list and you can rest easy knowing your home and yard are winter-ready. Overwhelmed? Let our team help you arrange for these seasonal chores.
To learn more, please email Rising Tide Realty Property Manager, Anthony Sillitta at anthony@maddenre.com or visit www.maddenre.com