Temperatures are dropping and the days are getting shorter. Autumn is such a special time to enjoy the outdoors yet also time to prepare for the coming winter. While it may feel like it’s enough to put away the patio set and light a pumpkin spice candle, there are many other things you can do to help prepare your home for “sweater weather”. We have some suggestions for you.
Gutters: It is time to clear your gutters and downspouts. Leaves and debris build up in them throughout the year. Clearing them out helps to eliminate potential clogs in your home’s drainage. Examine the overall condition of your downspouts as well. Now may be a good time to repair or replace any with damage.
Roof and Chimney/Flues: Check on the status of your roof. Clear away debris and look for missing shingles or shingles in need of repair. Check your chimney for loose flashing and missing mortar. Seal small cracks. Have your chimney soot swept to prevent problems or potential fire.
Mulch: Fall mulch helps to insulate soil and encourage a healthy environment of earthworms and microbes, improving your soil. It also helps to insulate plant roots and minimize temperature swings which can put stress on your plants. We have mulch on hand to meet your needs here at Hewlynn Home & Garden Center.
Drafts/Weather Stripping: Check your doors and windows for drafts and replace weather stripping if needed. This will prevent heat loss and excess energy use and keep your home warm and cozy through those chilly months.
Outdoor Furniture: Bring in your outdoor furniture or cover it with a protective waterproof cover. This will bring longevity to your outdoor furniture investment.
Fireplace: Clean out your fireplace or wood burning stove properly. Stack firewood neatly in an accessible and safe location that is away from your home to help prevent insects and rodents from moving into your home. Cover it with a tarp to keep it dry. Be sure firewood is cut to a size that will easily fit in your fireplace and save smaller pieces for kindling.
Grill: Give your grill a thorough cleaning. Cover it properly and store propane in the proper place if not going to be used. We can help you with all your propane, grill cleaning supplies and grill covers here at Hewlynn Home & Garden.
Garage: Make a quick once over of your garage checking for cracks and potential areas that need improvement before the cold weather. Keeping your garage organized of your stored summer supplies will make it easier to access your fall and winter supplies. Conduct regular maintenance on your lawn tools. Now is a great time to replace filters, spark plugs, oil, etc. Check to make sure your winter tools and machines are ready for use like changing the oil in your snowblower. Perform any maintenance or upkeep they may need now before you need to “call them into action”. It is also a great time to clean your garage tracks and hinges to keep them functioning properly.
Irrigation: Sprinkler systems need to be winterized. Also, you should remove hoses from outdoor faucets, roll and store them safely. Turn off and flush external faucets.
Fire prevention: Inspect your fire extinguishers and smoke alarms. Every home should be equipped with several ABC rated fire extinguishers. Check the expiration date on fire extinguishers and replace as needed. Smoke/carbon monoxide detectors should be tested, dusted and cleaned.
Winter Supplies: Stock up on shovel, sidewalk salt, firewood and winter gear. Check the functionality of your thermostat to be sure it is working properly. It’s a great time to upgrade to a smart thermostat if you don’t have one already. Find your winter supplies here at Hewlynn Home & Garden Center.
Emergency Kits: Restock emergency kits. Check flashlights and replenish food and water supplies if needed.
Whatever your needs may be to become “winter ready” stop in and ask us how we can help you prepare for a cozy, warm winter!