The leaves are starting to turn beautiful colors and the temperatures are beginning to drop. Pumpkin-flavored everything is in the grocery stores and you just pulled your heavy sweaters out of the closet.
In other words, autumn is currently in full swing.
But as you enjoy your pumpkin spice latte and are admiring the lovely leaves, remember that Old Man Winter will be here before you know it, with super cold temps, snow, sleet, and other nasty weather.
In order to make sure that your home is ready for the onset of cold weather, try to take care of the following renovations and projects before the end of November:
Upgrade Your Doors and Windows
If your doors and windows have not been replaced in decades, it is time to consider an upgrade. The cold air can easily get in the house through gaps around the doors and windows, which can lead to a chilly home and super-high electric bills. Contact a number of door and window replacement companies in the next couple of weeks and get a few bids for this project; the company you choose will also be glad to get this type of work completed before the snow starts to fall. At the very least, House Beautiful notes, check your doors and windows carefully for gaps and then use weather stripping or caulk to seal up any drafty areas. This way, if your budget doesn’t allow for a full replacement right now, you can still prevent chilly air from getting in.
Install a Home Security Camera System
Maybe you have an old security camera system that is in desperate need of an update, or you have had this type of tech device on your wish list for some time. Either way, fall is the ideal time to tackle this project and start the winter season with a more secure home. As a bonus, you don’t have to work with a company that will make you sign a long-term contract and buy their cameras from them; you can channel your inner Weekend Warrior and shop for a new security camera system from a company like Lorex. For instance, their Nocturnal models are a perfect option, especially if you get really nasty winter weather in your neck of the woods. The Nocturnal home security cameras will not only capture great footage, but they also will continue to operate despite heavy rainstorms, big-time snowstorms, and sub-zero temperatures. You can order the cameras from the comfort of home; once they arrive, get busy installing the cameras around your home’s perimeter — and then treat yourself to a nice pumpkin muffin when you are done.
Thoroughly Inspect Your Heating System
The last thing you want this winter is for your heating system to conk out right before a blizzard hits. To prevent this, Travelers suggests doing some preventive maintenance by hiring a licensed contractor to thoroughly check your furnace or boiler. You or the pro should also clean or replace the furnace filter on a forced-air system, and while you are at it, hire a chimney sweep to clear out your flues and make sure your fireplaces are ready to go. If anything is found to be cracked, broken or no longer functioning properly, plan to have them repaired or replaced before the first snowfalls.
Have a Safe and Warm Winter
The weather is so lovely right now, it is really the ideal time to take care of a number of home renovation projects. By thinking ahead and ensuring your windows and doors are in great shape, you have a new and weatherproof security system in place and a well-functioning heater, you can rest assured that even if the weather outside is frightful, your fall renovations will mean you will enjoy a winter that is delightful.