November’s rush brings holiday prep. Yet vital home tasks get missed. These chores keep your home safe and ready for winter. Let’s explore the often-forgotten jobs. Many rake leaves in October. But November brings a final drop. A thick mat of leftover leaves is bad. It smothers grass and breeds mold. It invites pests seeking shelter. Clear these final leaves. This protects your lawn’s health. It also prevents slippery, wet hazards on walkways.
Overlooking Window and Screen Cleaning
Dirty windows block precious winter sun. Clean glass lets in free solar heat. Remove summer screens now. Wash them before storing. Clean the window tracks of debris. Check for loose seals or cracks. Good seals keep cold air out. This lowers heating bills. It also brightens your home’s interior on dark days.
Ignoring Outdoor Spigot Prep
Disconnect and store garden hoses first. Left connected, water traps inside. This leads to freezing back into the faucet. Use an insulated cover for extra safety. This simple step stops pipe bursts in your walls.
Avoiding Exterior Caulk
Examine all exterior seams. Check around windows, doors, and siding joints. Look for cracked or shrunken caulk. Old caulk lets moisture inside your walls. This causes rot and drafts. Use a weatherproof sealant for repairs. Doing this now locks out winter moisture. It improves energy efficiency.
Forgetting About Patio Furniture and Grills
Don’t leave furniture and grills exposed. Clean them thoroughly first. Dirt and moisture cause damage over winter. Store cushions indoors. Cover heavy items with strong, breathable covers. Move portable grills to a sheltered area like a garage. This extends their life for many more seasons.
Not Pruning Vulnerable Trees and Shrubs
Look for dead or overhanging branches. Heavy snow and ice can break them. These falling limbs damage property. They can also take down power lines. Prune trees away from your roof and siding. Trim shrubs back from the foundation. This prevents pest bridges into your home.
Delaying Holiday Lighting Plans
Once maintenance is done, festive lights can go up. A clean, safe home is the perfect canvas. Planning early is smart. Beavercreek holiday light installation companies get booked fast. They ensure safe, professional displays. Check all bulbs before hanging. This prevents electrical hazards.
Overlooking Outdoor Lighting Checks
Days are shorter. They use less energy. They last longer in cold weather. Beavercreek holiday light installation companies often handle decorative lighting. But your permanent fixtures are your first line of defense. Check the exterior vent flap. Ensure it opens and closes freely. A clean vent dries clothes faster. It also saves energy.
Draining and Shutting Off Outdoor Plumbing
This goes beyond simple spigots. Look for outdoor kitchens or utility sinks. These have separate water lines. Drain all water from these lines. Shut off their supply valves. For complex systems, call a plumber. A Beavercreek holiday light installation company’s professional focus is on lights. But a plumber handles this. Don’t mix the two jobs.
Conclusion
With your home maintained, enjoy decorating. Your efforts protect your investment. They give you peace of mind. When ready for lights, call the experts. A reputable Beavercreek holiday light installation company can handle the rest. They install stunning displays safely. Then you can relax. Enjoy the cozy, bright season in your well-prepared home.