As we leave August behind and get into the full swing of September, it’s clear that summer is coming to an end. While some might not be too thrilled for the colder months ahead, there is so much to look forward to – from Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas – to rich fall colors and cozy sweaters. And now is the time to begin preparing your home for the rest of the year to come. Keep reading for our top five ways to prep your home for the coming Fall and Winter!

Don’t Wait – Get the Big Jobs Done Now

If there are any larger-scale renovation jobs you’ve been planning but haven’t got around to – this is your sign to bite the bullet and get them done now! Especially if you’re a person who doesn’t like the winter, it will be easier and less stressful to organize it now. Not only that, but having lovely new spaces to spend the Fall and Winter will simply make them easier to get through. Think of it as an early Christmas present to yourself and your family!

It’s a fantastic time of year to begin experimenting with different colors and patterns to ensure that your home is as cozy and welcoming as it can be for yourself and all your guests. Check out our recent article on different Fall Paints and Fabrics for some quick inspiration!

Tend To Your Garden

Now is really the best time to prepare your garden/yard for autumn and winter – while it’s not too hot and not too cold. If your garden or yard mostly consists of summer foliage, why not get some winter plants in the ground? I highly recommend Holly – not just because it’ll look beautiful in your yard, but it makes for fantastic fresh greens arrangements in the winter. It also provides a lovely pop of color in those colder winter months.

If you don’t want to plant anything new, then now is the time to get your gardening gloves on and prune the bushes, cut the grass, get rid of all your weeds and dead plants, and work to prepare and protect the soil in the winter. The winter can quickly erode your soil and damage it. Lay mulch around any plants that are staying for the winter – a biodegradable and aesthetically pleasing way to cover and protect the soil. Alternatively, you can use a tarp or cloth to cover and protect exposed and empty soil, ensuring that your garden is fertile and ready for the spring planting season.

TIP: Did you know that you can plant garlic in the Autumn, where it will be ready to harvest the following summer? Plant in October – January to have it ready for May – July. 

Remember the Exterior

Once again, take advantage of the weather that this time of year brings – it’s the perfect time to tackle all the jobs you’ve been avoiding on the exterior of your house. Whether that be a new paint job, new windows, or simply clearing out the gutters, right now is the best weather to get it done. In a few weeks’ time, there’s a good chance the cold will make these jobs unpleasant. 

Having a shiny exterior to your house will last throughout the winter. I always think the exterior of a house is often the part that is least thought about – which is exactly the reason why having a beautiful exterior will truly wow any guests that come to visit. If you are wanting to vamp up the exterior of your house but aren’t quite ready for a new paint job, consider power-washing it instead. This is both extremely satisfying to do, and will leave your house looking brand new!

Small Changes Make Big Differences

In terms of actually getting your house holiday ready, now is the time to begin switching up your decor and adding little fall and winter touches. There are countless small changes to be made that will make a huge difference and have your home be cozy and ready for each holiday to come. Start by switching out throw pillows for more Autumn colors. Switch out knick-knacks for Fall-themed items such as mini pumpkins or potpourri and pinecones. Change the bedding in your house to reflect the season: heavier blankets and quilts with deeper colors will help a room seem cozier and warmer. 

You can’t forget about candles! Candles are one of the best ways to create that autumn/winter atmosphere – not just because they are peaceful to look at, but because of the amazing array of spicy and warm scents that this season brings! Head to the store to grab a few and begin lighting them to get you in that Autumn mood!

Prepare for the Cold

Our last tip is perhaps the most practical tip and one you will certainly thank yourself for. Now is the time to prepare your house for the coming cold months. Even if it’s still relatively warm outside, choose a day to test your heating to ensure that it works. This way you won’t encounter any unpleasant surprises when you really do need the heating to stay warm. This is also a great time to rest your fireplace, and do any maintenance that is needed.

If you live in a particularly cold area, you may be keen to further insulate with window coverings – whether you want to install these yourself or hire a professional, now is the best time to plan when and how that will happen. Additionally, now is a great time to start switching your wardrobe around – pull out those big sweaters and jeans so they’re ready for when you need them.

We’re Here to Help

Of course, this list is helpful, but we also know that these tasks are often easier said than done – especially if you’re a busy professional or your kids are busy with the back-to-school season. That’s why we’re here – to help take the load off your back! Head to our services page to see how we can help you prepare your home for the fall and winter.