It might seem premature to begin readying your home for cold weather, but you’ll be surprised at just how quickly the warm days fade into chilly evenings. Fall will be upon us before you know it, and it’s a good idea to plan to ensure that your home is as cozy and safe as possible by the time the seasons change. Let’s take a look at a few tips to help get your home ready for fall!
- Have the Heating Checked Out
One of the first things you should do when preparing your house for the transition from summer to autumn is to have your heating system serviced. This is true even if you didn’t encounter any specific issues last year. These kinds of systems are complex and require careful maintenance to stay in good shape and run well, so schedule an appointment with a heating and cooling professional and have them make sure that everything is in order.
- Check the Porch Railings
One very important item to check before fall arrives is your porch safety railing. It is far too easy to let this particular step slip your mind, however, keep in mind that icy sidewalks are not too far in the future. If you’ve ever grabbed for a railing as your feet slip from under you, you’ll understand why this slip and fall prevention tip is vital for the colder months. Take the time to make sure the railing is still firmly secured and is in good working order. If it isn’t, have it repaired as soon as possible.
- Check for Drafts
It’s easy to ignore drafts during the summer. As long as the AC is working, you’re likely to notice a bit of stray air. That minor annoyance can turn into a serious issue once cold weather arrives, however, and you find yourself turning the heat up higher and higher just to maintain a stable temperature. Avoid that astronomical energy bill altogether by checking for cracks or other issues that are allowing air into your home. Look around windows, for example, as well as under doors and around outside walls.
- Get the Warm Bedding Out
Okay, this isn’t exactly the most practical tip, but it’s always a good idea to have clean bedding ready to go. That’s especially true once the nights go from “pleasantly cool” to “uncomfortably chilly”. Stay cozy inside with warm, clean bedding! Start pulling it out now so that you aren’t rushing to wash things once it starts to get cold outside.
I mentioned the importance of checking your safety railings, but sometimes that’s not enough. Take slip and fall prevention seriously and consider non-slip treads for your stairs. GripStrips are affordable anti-slip stair treads that are very easy to install. Each GripStrip is pre-punched and slotted so there is no drilling required. They are tough, long-lasting, weather-resistant, and can provide a bit more traction when moving in wet shoes. They’re also great for everyday use as strips to put on outside steps to prevent slipping. GripStrips for stairs can help keep you and your family safe this fall.
Are you ready for fall to arrive? Get started on your weatherproofing early and have your home ready to go before the leaves begin to turn!