Discover vital outdoor maintenance tasks every homeowner should complete before winter to safeguard their property.
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Fall is a season of change, where cool breezes and vibrant foliage set the stage for the impending winter chill. For homeowners, it’s also the perfect time to tackle outdoor maintenance to ensure your property weathers the colder months ahead. Preparing your home now can prevent costly repairs and keep everything running smoothly when temperatures drop. Here’s your guide to essential outdoor maintenance tasks before winter arrives.
1. Keep Mowing Until Your Lawn Is Dormant
Don’t put away your lawnmower too early! Grass continues to grow until daytime temperatures consistently remain in the 50s°F and nighttime temperatures drop to the 40s°F. Mowing during fall keeps your lawn looking neat and prevents weeds and pests from taking over. Watering is equally important—stick to 1 inch per week until your grass goes dormant.
2. Rake Those Leaves
While piles of leaves may be fun for kids and pets, leaving them on your lawn can damage the grass. Leaves can block sunlight, trap moisture, and lead to fungal diseases. Rake them up regularly while they’re still dry and manageable to maintain a healthy lawn.
3. Aerate Your Lawn
Aeration is a must for lawns before winter. Poking small holes in the soil loosens compacted dirt, allowing water, oxygen, and nutrients to reach the roots. Combined with overseeding, this process sets your lawn up for a lush revival in the spring.
4. Inspect Your Roof and Clean Gutters
Your roof and gutters face their toughest test during winter. Check for loose shingles, cracks, or any signs of damage to your roof. Clogged gutters, often filled with leaves during autumn, can lead to water backing up and freezing, causing ice dams. A good gutter cleanout in late October or November ensures that water drains away properly.
5. Store or Cover Outdoor Furniture
Though outdoor furniture is designed for durability, constant exposure to harsh elements can wear it down. If possible, store furniture in a shed or garage. If you’re short on space, invest in weather-resistant covers to protect your patio set.
6. Shut Off Exterior Faucets and Hoses
Frozen pipes can turn into a homeowner’s worst nightmare. To prevent damage, shut off the water supply to outdoor faucets and hoses, and ensure they are completely drained. Installing frost-proof faucet covers adds an extra layer of defense.
7. Trim Trees Near Your Property
Overgrown branches aren’t just unsightly—they’re dangerous. Strong winter winds or heavy snow can break limbs, potentially damaging your home or power lines. Focus on trimming dead or weak branches, especially those close to your house or other structures. For larger trees, consider hiring a professional to ensure safety.
8. Secure Entry Points from Pests
Cold weather drives pests like mice to seek warmth. Inspect your home’s exterior for gaps, cracks, or holes that could serve as entry points. Seal these areas with cement, plywood, or hardware cloth to ensure no unwanted guests make your home theirs.
9. Keep Your Tools in Top Shape
Extend the life of your gardening tools with a little TLC before winter. Clean them with degreaser or steel wool, and store them off the ground in a dry area, like a shed or garage. For power tools, proper storage helps prevent rust and moisture damage.
10. Protect Vulnerable Plants
Some plants need extra care to survive winter. Bring delicate potted plants indoors or to a sheltered space after inspecting for pests. For outdoor flora, consider adding a thick layer of mulch or placing garden cloches over them to shield against extreme temperatures.
11. Apply a Protective Coating to Your Fence
Winter weather can wreak havoc on fences. For metal fences, remove rust and give them a fresh coat of paint for added durability. Wooden fences should be treated with a sealant to prevent damage from snow, ice, or moisture.
Taking the time to handle these essential tasks can save you stress and money down the line. Plus, knowing your home is ready to face whatever winter throws its way gives you peace of mind. Grab your rake, roll up your sleeves, and start prepping before the frost sets in!
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