Leaves are falling, and winter will be here before you know it! These simple tasks you can start now will help you be ready for winter, and no pool toys frozen in the yard until spring! 

Reuse Those Leaves!  

Rake the leaves in your yard and reuse them around the exterior of your home! Organic mulch is free, but adding it to your garden before winter can add rich nutrients for a healthier garden for the next year! The same goes for the flower bed; spread these leaves wherever things have been planted! Protect your plants from the chill. Remove the expended plants and annuals so they don’t attract disease or insects. Some experts recommend covering your flower and vegetable beds with burlap to avoid weed growth. This is also an opportunity to add your organic mulch, especially in colder climates, since the summer sun will have depleted any laid earlier in the year.

Outdoor Furniture

You can do this later, but you’ll want to do something about it before the first freeze! Wiping down that lawn chair now means you don’t have to do it next spring! Don’t forget to take the swings off the jungle gym; plastic/rubber weathers very easily, and putting them away in the winter will keep them looking newer and longer! Break out a bucket of soapy water and some scrub brushes; maybe recruit your kids in this cleaning adventure! 

Home Inspection!   

Fall is a perfect time to review your home from top to bottom! Most companies offer free estimates if your home does have an issue, but at least you can have your home inspected so you know what’s up! Check your basement or crawlspace, roof, chimney, and fireplace, and don’t forget HVAC systems! Check out all windows and doors to be sure you’re not losing heat. If it’s a minor leak, apply weather stripping or caulk where necessary. Also, head up to the attic and ensure any insulation up there is in good shape.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

The leaves are pretty, but check if any trees are dying or branches are about to fall. If branches are above your vehicles or home, the winter snow can bog them down and then drop them to the ground. This goes with dead trees as well. Check on your yard before winter so at least you can remove the dead branches evident in autumn! 

Irrigation System Check

The remaining water within your irrigation system can wreak havoc if frozen; you must drain everything completely. Turn the water off at the main valve and turn off the automatic controller if you have a controller. Don’t forget to drain your hoses and remove them from the outside. 

Window Washing

This is a great chore for children to do inside to help or outside on the first level. Wash your windows before winter and have clear views all winter long! Don’t forget while washing; you can clear out any debris from the window, like dirt, bugs, bits of leaves, or cobwebs from the window frame and windowsill. 

Sources: bestpickreports.com