The holiday season means two things for homeowners: lots of house guests and lots of snow. That’s why it’s important you start early this fall and prepare your home as best you can. Here are seven ways to get your home ready for the holidays.
Seal Your Doors and Windows
Plugging drafts you find in your home will not only keep you much warmer but can save you 10%-20% on energy per year.
A door sweep can keep your heat in, while keeping cold air and moisture out. Caulk and other sealants work great for window sills and other cracks you may find. Remember, acrylic caulking is best for external fixes as it’s resilient to temperature and weather changes.
Trim Trees and Bushes
Trimming back overgrown shrubs and bushes can give your yard a clean, manicured feel. You should also look for overgrown branches, especially ones that may pose a safety concern to your house or surrounding electrical lines.
Clean Out Gutters
An overflowing gutter can wreak havoc on your home’s, siding, and foundation. If you would rather not climb up on a ladder for this one, hire a local yard care specialist or handyman.
One thing to pay attention to is whether or not your gutter is emptying far enough from your house. If not, an extension piece can be a worthwhile investment.
Drain Your Sprinkler System
Remembering to empty your sprinkler system as well as any spigots can help you avoid developing leaks or having pipes freeze over. This can often lead to costly damage and put your sprinkler out of commission in the spring.
Declutter Your Garage
As the cold sets in we lose a lot of our outdoor work space. That’s why now is the perfect time to reclaim your garage. Have unused supplies or tools you’ve been meaning to get rid of? Hire a handyman to haul it away. Whether it’s to open up more storage or have a place for other projects, you’ll be happy you did it.
Restyle Your Dining Room
The holidays aren’t just about the weather. Be ready for family and guests who are sure to visit this season. Spruce up that entertaining space with a few quick updates. Repainting a room’s molding, or even going over the whole thing, can give it a fresh new feel. So too can some strategic wall decor. Try some new paintings, or hang some shelves to show off that dining ware.
Getting ready for the winter doesn’t have to be stressful. By completing just a few simple projects you’ll feel much more prepared. Make things even easier on yourself, by hiring a professional or handyman to get the job done quickly.