With summer winding down, it’s time to get ready for fall. While fall decor can help your home feel like it’s autumn, it’s not the only thing that can help prepare you for the new season. Your roof, yard, windows, doors, and HVAC systems should be inspected and repaired as necessary. And when it comes to new homes in Reno, it’s important to take care of these things to maintain optimal appearance and functionality. Here are our tips for preparing your home for the fall season!

Check for Air Leaks Around Doors and Windows

Sometimes making the smallest improvements can make the biggest difference. For instance, gaps in caulking and weather-stripping can account for 10% of your high heating bills. Start by inspecting each door and window in your home with just a piece of paper. Close the door/window on a piece of paper and try to slide it around. If it slides easily, then you likely have air leaks.

To fix this, purchase new weather-stripping to go under the leaky doors and windows, and use caulking around any trim areas that may be letting in the cold air as well.

Unclog Your Gutters

Not all homes have gutters, but for those that do, it’s crucial to clean them out so they can function properly. Gutters typically collect rainwater from your roof and direct it away from the house to prevent water damage. However, gutters collect plenty of other debris like leaves, dirt, and garbage as well. The debris build-up in your gutters prevents water from flowing through them and can lead to interior and exterior damage.

First, be sure you have a safe way to remove the debris and dispose of the waste properly. Once you have removed all the debris from your gutters, consider inserting mesh guards that allow water to flow more smoothly and make clearing out waste much simpler.

Inspect Your Roof for Damage

Your roof acts as a warm winter beanie when it starts to get cold out. Just as a beanie covers your head from the cold weather, your roof covers your home and protects it from the elements. Damage to the roof can make your entire home more susceptible to the cold and accounts for a large amount of your heating bills, so you need to check them before temperatures drop.

Be sure to thoroughly inspect your roof for damage to the metal flashing, shingles, and protective coating. Are there any holes cracks? Are you missing shingles? Have any of the shingles started to warp, curl, or lift? Is the top coating beginning to flake off? Consult with a licensed roofing contractor if you notice any of the above issues, and have them dealt with.

Fertilize Your Lawn

Many landscapers suggest fertilizing in the spring or the fall because temperatures are moderate during this time. Fertilizing in the fall is ideal for many reasons. One is that fertilizing at this time further ensures the protection of your lawn by preparing it for the freezing winter. Also, fall fertilization promotes healthy regrowth of grass blades and roots in the spring, allowing it to grow thicker and greener.

If you live in a dry area, such as Reno, NV, then fertilizing in the fall is even more crucial. This will help the grass stay healthy even during a dry season.

Service Your HVAC System

Your HVAC (Heating, Venting, and Air Conditioning) unit should be checked regularly, especially if your system is older. Again, faulty HVAC systems can account for a large percentage of your heating bill as well. Be sure to check the coils for damage and build-up and clean them as necessary, but do so carefully. Also, be sure to cover your outdoor A/C unit with an appropriate cover and change out your old, dirty filters for new, clean ones.

And if dirt and dust tend to bother you, be sure to clean out your vents before opening them back up.

Store Your Patio Furniture and Lawn Equipment

This is one of the last things that need to be done, as many people, especially in Reno, NV, typically use these things well into the fall months. It’s important to store your patio furniture under a weather-proof cover or hide it away in an enclosed area when the time comes. For lawn equipment, start by cleaning it off and making sure it is locked and in the “off” position. Be sure to store these in a shed that doesn’t leak or in the garage away from any areas where it may get damaged.

Check Out New Homes in Reno, NV

One of the best advantages of buying a new home in Reno is that it’s typically less prone to needing repairs. And most new homes in Reno, NV, are built to last, especially when they’re built by the best home builders in the area. Lifestyle Homes works with qualified, licensed professionals to build your custom home, using only the best tools and materials. Connect with us today to see your potential new home in Reno, NV!