Hello Friends, 
It’s that time of year where the days are getting shorter, swimming pools are closing down, and a slight crispiness is in the air. Yep, FALL is on the way! Now, we all hate saying “good-bye” to the warm, sunny days of summer, but we also welcome the calmness and serenity of the cooler months ahead.
Maintaining our homes can be a challenge especially with our hectic day to day lives. It’s a wonder, we get anything accomplished! Now, that we are about to enter a new season. I thought I would share some information on how to prepare.
First, let’s tackle the outside/exterior grounds:
Gutters
Keeping them clean will prevent water and rust damage to your basement and exterior. Also, have them covered to keep debris from clogging them again.
Roofing
This will prevent leaks and possible corrosion to your interior ceilings from the snow/icey times to come.
Driveway
Slip and Falls increase during the fall/winter months; to minimize these have cracks filled and uneven pavements resurfaced and smoothed out.
Lawn
Your yard should look great all year round as it is the first thing you
notice; however, as the weather changes so does your landscape. Keep it sharp with regular trims, fertilizer treatments, and plant life accustomed to the cooler temps.
Garage
Schedule a day or two to organize and clean out any clutter. As it gets colder you will want to be able to park inside.
Lighting
It’s getting darker quicker. Be sure that your outside light fixtures are working and bright enough to provide adequate lighting at night.
Next, here are some interior things:
Heating/Furnace
As it gets colder outside you definitely want to keep warm and cozy. Contact an HVAC contractor to make sure your home will be be able to heat up when you need it.
Smoke Detectors
These should be checked throughout the year, but we forget sometimes. Please test your detectors, replace batteries, and create an evacuation plan for you and your family in case of a fire. You may want to do drills periodically as an extra precaution.
Humidifiers
For those with allergies or respiratory issues this will be key for you. Since you won’t be opening the windows to let in the fresh air, you want to keep your air clean by changing the filter or pads.
Plumbing
During these next few months, keeping your pipes protected from the cold will ensure that you have running water. Monitor freeze warnings often.
Fireplace(s)
Have your chimney cleaned, brush out your FP frequently after use, keep plenty of firewood handy.
Windows/Doors
It is easy for air to seep in under door cracks and window seals. To help keep your heating bill low, have your doors and windows sealed tight.
And Finally, here are some cool things that will make the transition a bit more fun and exciting:
Home Decor
Play up the season’s boldest colors, patterns and prints to bring your home to life even in the dead of fall and winter! Try switching out those light airy candles to more warm scents like pumpkin and vanilla; change your throw pillows, even add outside finishings like door wreaths to take you from summer in a snap!
New Wardrobe
Pack up your shorts, tees, and sandals in exchange for much warmer choices. There’s nothing like chunky knits and boots to bring that cozy feeling.
New YOU
Try changing your hair color to a richer tone. It will add warmth to your overall look!
The Holidays
Getting a jump-start on your holiday planning will make travelling and gatherings a breeze! Try some cool apps or check out your fav magazines or travel websites for great deals (i.e. Groupon, Livingsocial, Amazon deals, etc.)
Yummy in Your Tummy!
Looking to spice up this fall and winter? Try a few new recipes! Food is always a great way to bring in the new seasons. Hot soups, savory and sweet baked goods, and hot beverages will definitely set the atmosphere!
I REALLY hope you try out a few of my tips and tricks for this Fall/Winter. Also, comment with a few of your tid bits as well! I'd love to try them out and share them with my clients. Until next time!
Stay Blessed,
Kameela
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