As the summer carries on and we approach the fall season, there are some important DIY jobs and projects we should carry out around the home. As the seasons change and we enter the cooler part of the year there are some things we should do to prepare and ensure that the home is ready for more unpredictable weather as well as cooler temperatures.
Today we are going to take a look at a few of the jobs you can do around the house and the garden in the next few weeks to get ready for fall and winter.
Insulate the loft
The first thing you can look into at the tail end of the summer is installing insulation in the loft to keep your home warm as the weather cools. This is a simple DIY and you can get some professionals in to help you insulate the loft properly and ensure that it is warm.
Repair the roof
The second important job to do before the cold season hits are some essential roof repair. Repairing the roof of any cracks, loose tiles, or missing tiles is important and it will ensure that rain, snow, and sleet don’t penetrate the inside of the property during the colder months. Whilst it is still nice and sunny outside take the chance to get up on the roof and inspect it to ensure there is no damage. If there is, there are lots of simple ways you can fix these yourself. For larger issues, make sure to contact a professional before the seasons change to ensure your home is protected.
Clean your gutters
Your gutters are a breeding ground for damp, mold, and mosquitoes throughout the year. It is important for you to clean out your gutters a couple of times a year to ensure that they don’t become blocked with debris and plant material. Guttering drives water away from the foundation of your homes and this allows it to be sent either down the drain to be washed away or it can be collected in a water butt to help you water your plants without a hose. Make sure to clean out your gutters and replace any cracked pieces and this will keep the water flowing the right way.
Mow the lawn
Once the summer is coming to an end, you should take the time to do one last mow of your lawn before we head into colder climates. As well as doing this, you may also want to trim the edges of the lawn to make sure they are looking clean and fresh throughout the next few months. Cut the lawn as low as you can, and if you have an adjustable lawn mower use the lowest setting to ensure it stays tidy and fresh for longer.
Rake the leaves
Leaves will inevitably start falling from August onwards, and even before the weather has fully cooled you will have leaves all over your lawn and in your flowerbeds. Leaves are a great addition to your compost bin – so take the chance now to rake your leaves up and get them into your compost bin.
Spread out compost
Speaking of your compost bin, the end of the summer is a good time to empty your current compost bin and add nutrients back into the soil for the winter. Your plants will need as much nutrients as they can get during the colder months and by doing this you will also be able to cover up any mess in your flowerbeds.
Deep clean the carpets
While the weather is still hot, take the opportunity this weekend to steam clean your carpets and make sure they are clean for the winter. While it is still summer you can allow your carpets to air dry and this will leave you with fresh smelling, clean carpets for the seasons to come.
Hang some new artwork
Now that the seasons are changing, your artwork should change too! It is an outdated concept that once you buy a frame you should keep the same piece in it all year long – because let’s face it, we all get bored of looking at the same thing all the time! Keep a few pieces in each of your frames and rotate them throughout the year to refresh the home. This is a super simple way to stay with your theme but to also add a seasonal twist to your home. You can also do this with your cushion covers for a bit of fun.