Ten home improvement projects to tackle this fall

Summer is officially ending in a just a couple of weeks and in many places, summer has already been over for a few weeks. Now that your summer gear has been stowed away up in the attic or someplace, it’s time to turn your attention to your home’s exterior and getting it ready for cold weather. Here are ten home improvement projects you may want to take care of this fall.

Evaluate your roof

Fall is the ideal time for a roof inspection since undiagnosed roof problems usually lead to major problems once winter hits. Check your roof for damaged or missing shingles and take care of any potential problems immediately. If your roof is in bad shape overall, might as well spring for a new roof now, it’s only going to get more expensive if you wait.

Clean and inspect your rain gutters

Clogged rain gutters can cause all sorts of problems for you in the winter so fall is a good time to dig out the ol’ ladder and get all those leaves and gunk out of the gutters. While you’re at it, make sure the gutters are securely fastened to your home and that there is no rust or bent sections.

Check the siding and trim

You’ll want to watch for signs of rot or insect infestation in any wood exterior products as these are vulnerable areas in the winter. It may be time for a new exterior paint job as well.

Repair your deck or install a new one

Has your deck seen its last summer party? If so, it’s better to repair or replace it now so it’s ready to go when next summer begins, otherwise it will be two years before you can use it again.

Inspect your garage door

Garage doors wear down over time so it’s a good idea to inspect it and make sure it’s operating properly. The garage door is also a major culprit for high heating costs during winter so make sure the air infiltration seals around the door are strong as well.

Seal up the windows

Windows are another culprit for high heating costs so make sure the weather stripping around the windows is in good shape. You may even want to consider replacing your windows with energy efficient glass, it’s one of the most cost effective remodeling projects you can do and it may even earn you a tax credit.

Consider privacy window upgrades

Want to let it plenty of natural light without compromising your privacy. You can avoid the hassle of opening and closing blinds and drapes all day by replacing your windows with decorative glass or acrylic block privacy windows.

Repaint or replace your entry doors

Make sure the weather stripping around the entry doors isn’t worn out. While you’re at it, you may want to replace the entry doors entirely or at least give them a fresh coat of paint. It will really boost your home’s curb appeal.

Secure or replace railings

Loose railings on the porch are hazardous, especially in winter when ice or snow might accumulate on the steps in front of your home so fall is a good time to make sure all your railings are nice and secure. You can give those a fresh coat of paint as well.

Take care of some simple landscaping

Fall means plenty of leaves to rake up. Get it over with now before the snow starts to fall. Also re-mulch your planter areas so they’re ready to go again next spring when the snow melts.

Source: PR Newswire

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