Home Interior
Do not kick on the heat until your furnace has been inspected and serviced by a professional. These inspections should occur annually and are intended to identify potential problems and get your heating system ready for the heavy usage ahead. Heating systems that are not properly maintained will run more inefficiently, which will cost more money. Also, units that are malfunctioning can be dangerous, especially if they are leaking harmful gases such as carbon monoxide. According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, 1,500 Americans die each year from accidental exposure to CO, and there are more than 10,000 injuries each year. Need to have your HVAC system inspected?Find an HVAC professional here.
Home Exterior
Give peeling paint the ol’ heave-ho. Not only is it unsightly, but it can also allow wood rot or other damage to occur to your home’s siding and building materials. Paint peels due to the effects of weather or shoddy prep work before a layer of paint is applied. To remove peeling paint, use a hand scraper and follow with a light sanding to ensure the area is smooth and ready for a new coat of sealer or paint to be applied. While scraping, do not forget to wear safety goggles. Your eyes will be happy you did. Thinking about doing the painting yourself?Watch this first.
Lawn
It may be fall, but that doesn’t mean it’s time to put away your lawn equipment just yet. A few last-minute tasks will go a long way to preparing your yard for winter and promoting a healthier lawn next spring. Fertilizing and aerating your lawn should be at the top of your to-do list. Check with a local landscape professional before applying any fertilizer, though. The type of fertilizer needed this time of year varies by grass type, and it’s important to ensure this is done correctly. Also, don’t forget to remove grass clippings, thatch and other organic matter that could negatively affect your lawn. Want additional help? Read this.