Prepping Your Nest for Autumn:
Homeowner Tips for Fall
Keep pumpkin out of the garbage disposal.
Pumpkin carving is a lot of fun, but every year plumbers earn extra cash clearing garbage disposals that can't handle the stringy pumpkin pulp. You can save an expensive visit by disposing of it elsewhere, along with other foods that clump easily, such as oatmeal and potatoes.
Shop for new appliances.
True, this isn't a typical "Fall to-do list" item - but did you know that autumn is a great time to get discounts on appliances? New models start coming out around now, which means that many stores offer great deals on their existing inventory. (And don't forget about Black Friday, coming up on November 24.)
Check gutters and downspouts.
Make sure that gutters are clear of leaves and debris that could block them. Downspouts should direct water away from the home's foundation in order to prevent moisture problems, especially if there's a crawl space or basement.
Seal off rodent entry points.
Rodents start seeking shelter in the fall, and mice can get through an opening as small as the width of a pencil, according to experts. (Not to mention, they also appear to have zero remorse about chewing through anything in their way. :)
Steel wool held in place with caulk or foam is one way to create barriers. Some experts recommend silicone sealant, which is chew-resistant, for smaller holes.
Prepare your heating system.
Schedule a maintenance appointment with a professional before the cold weather rush, so you can get the jump on any winter heating issues or contractor appointment backlogs.
Winterize outdoor faucets.
Drain and disconnect hoses, and install insulated faucet covers on any that are in danger of freezing.
Review your home insurance coverage.
Did you invest in any remodeling this year, or have you installed a major improvement such as a new roof or windows? Even if the answer is "no", it's a good idea to review home insurance coverage periodically to make sure the numbers are in line with your home's true value.
Stock up on winter supplies.
Is everything you'd need during a power outage readily available? Useful items include batteries, headlamps, and power bank chargers for cell phones and computers. Salt or ice melt for walkways is always good to have on hand before a cold snap arrives.
Plan ahead for spring flowers.
Fall is a good time to plant spring-blooming bulbs, such as daffodils, crocus, and lily.
Service fireplaces and chimneys.
If you use a fireplace, have the chimney cleaned and inspected so it's ready to keep you cozy and safe all winter.
Consider letting some leaves lie.
Did you know that many pollinators depend on leaves and leaf litter to survive? Bumble bee queens can overwinter by burrowing into an inch or two of leaf litter, while many butterfly and moth species lay their eggs on the undersides of tree leaves.
Simply gathering leaves into piles around trees or on garden beds instead of burning or shredding them can keep things looking tidy while helping to preserve pollinator populations at the same time.
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