As fall settles in and we start to feel the chill in the air, it’s the perfect time to tackle a few DIY projects around the house to prepare for the winter season ahead.
From refreshing your garden with hearty crops to protecting outdoor furniture from the elements, there are several simple yet impactful tasks that can help winterize your home.
Not only will these projects enhance your home’s curb appeal and functionality, but they’ll also save you time and maintenance when spring rolls around again. Here are six practical, seasonal projects to get your home and garden in tip-top shape for the colder months.
Refresh Your Garden
Although fall may feel like the beginning of the dormant season, it is actually a great time to cultivate a variety of leafy greens and root vegetables. The cooler temperature and more predictable weather can make managing a garden easier and more rewarding for both first-time and seasoned gardeners. Consider planting crops such as spinach, kale, carrots, beets, and broccoli—these hardy options thrive in the cooler months, allowing you to enjoy a productive garden well into the fall.
If fall gardening isn’t your preference, this season is also an ideal time to prepare your garden for winter. Covering your garden beds can help protect the soil and plants from harsh winter conditions, ensuring your garden remains healthy and ready to flourish when spring returns next year.
Take Advantage of Lower Humidity to Repaint Your House
One of the most cost-effective ways to increase your home’s value and curb appeal is by adding a fresh coat of exterior paint to add some fresh flair. Fall is an ideal time for this project, as the cooler temperatures and lower humidity make the task easier and more enjoyable.
A new paint job can not only enhance your property’s value but also offer an opportunity to add a splash of color and personalize your space. When choosing a color, consider highlighting architectural features, adhering to neighborhood guidelines, or simply reflecting your own personal style. A fresh coat of paint is a great, affordable way to make a meaningful impact on the overall look and feel of your home.
Clean Up Your Gutters
Although it may not be the most glamorous DIY project, cleaning your gutters before winter is essential for preventing costly damage and extra maintenance during the colder months. By tackling this task in the fall, you can protect your home’s foundation from water damage and ensure that rainwater is properly redirected away from your roof.
It is also crucial to prevent water from sitting stagnant in your gutters during the winter, as this can lead to ice formation and further damage. Staying on top of small tasks like cleaning your gutters is key to keeping your home safe from leaks and flooding, ensuring it remains clean and secure throughout the year.
Pressure Wash Outdoor Areas
Following the warmer seasons, fall is an ideal time to tackle projects like pressure washing your outdoor spaces and the exterior of your home. This simple yet effective task can rejuvenate the look of your property, making it appear fresh and well-maintained. Pressure washing not only can remove unsightly mildew, mold, and dirt that may have accumulated over the past year, but it also helps to preserve the longevity of your home’s surfaces.
In addition to enhancing your home’s appearance, pressure washing driveways and walkways can improve overall safety. By removing slippery grime and buildup, you can create safer paths for walking, especially as the rainy season approaches. Regular maintenance like this not only boosts curb appeal, but also can help protect your home from potential damage caused by weather over time.
Hang Some New, Cozy Outdoor Lighting
For those who enjoy the cooler weather, fall also makes an excellent time to enhance your outdoor spaces with some new cozy lighting. Whether you’re considering casual garden lights or festive holiday decorations, adding new lighting can extend your outdoor hours and create a welcoming space for friends and family to gather.
Beyond aesthetics, upgrading your outdoor lighting can also boost curb appeal and, in turn, increase your property value— a significant advantage if you are considering selling your home in the future. This simple addition can not only elevate the atmosphere of your home, but also can add functionality to outdoor areas that might otherwise not see much use during cooler months.
Cover and Protect Existing Outdoor Furniture
If you don’t plan on using outdoor furniture until next spring, a smart project for fall may be to cover it all up for the season. Covering your furniture can protect it from rain, snow, and the general wear-and-tear of being exposed to the elements.
By taking the time to cover your furniture now, you can ensure it stays in good condition, saving you from having to clean or replace it by next year’s warmer seasons. This easy step is a great practical way to extend the lifespan of your outdoor pieces and keep them looking their best year-round.
