As the crisp air begins to roll in, fall is the perfect time to dive into those home renovation projects you’ve had in the back of your mind. This transitional season offers an ideal climate for upgrading your home. Most building materials are also at their best when they are installed in moderate temperatures. From strengthening your home’s defenses against winter weather to restoring its original charm, here are 10 home renovation and maintenance tips to ensure a successful renovation season this fall:
1. Plan for the Season:
With cooler temperatures, fall is a good season to tackle outdoor projects like roofing or siding. The mild fall climate not only makes working conditions more pleasant but also helps certain materials set and cure more effectively. Fall weather can also be unpredictable, so it’s wise to allocate extra time for any unexpected delays. Be mindful of weather forecasts if you are undertaking an outdoor project. Consider using project management tools or apps to keep everything organized and on track. Apps like Trello, Asana, or even simple spreadsheet tools like Google Sheets or Excel can help to break down your project into manageable tasks. These tools can help you to visualize timelines, track progress, and collaborate with contractors or family members, ensuring that nothing falls through the cracks.
2. Inspect your Roof and Gutters:
Check your home’s roof and gutters for any damage or debris to prevent winter issues. When inspecting your gutters, look for any clogs from leaves or branches that could block proper drainage, and be sure to wear gloves to avoid sharp edges. For the roof, inspect the surface carefully, looking for any lifted shingles or signs of wear that could lead to leaks. Confirm that everything is properly caulked and secure. Inspect the flashing around the chimney or dormers, as this is a common entry point for water. When checking the roof, a pair of binoculars can also help you spot any potential issues in some instances, without the need to climb up a ladder.
3. Check your Doors and Windows:
As you prepare your home for the colder months, it’s essential to start by checking the caulk and sealants around doors, windows, and fixtures – essentially, anything that penetrates your home from the outside and goes through the walls. Over time, these areas can develop cracks or gaps that allow drafts and moisture to seep in, leading to potential water damage and higher energy bills. Sealing these cracks can help reduce your energy bill by up to 15%, making this a smart renovation choice both for your home’s comfort and your budget. If you are planning to restore old windows this fall, our Speedheater™ Infrared paint removers make it incredibly easy to soften and remove both paint and glazing putty from your older windows.
4. Check your exterior paint:
Check your exterior paint is in good condition. Are any touch-ups required? Is there any chipped paint? Addressing these issues now can help prevent further damage to your home’s exterior surfaces as the weather becomes harsher. When choosing paints for exterior projects, opt for high-quality, weather-resistant paints that can withstand the changing conditions of fall. Also, ensure the surface is properly prepped before painting to promote better adhesion and longevity of the finish.
5. Paint the front door:
Fall is usually the ideal season to complete this task, as exterior painting should be done when the outdoor temperature is at least 50 degrees, and not colder than 40 degrees at night. If you’re thinking of repainting your door and need to remove existing paint, learn which Speedheater scrapers to use to get the job done quickly and efficiently in our handy scrapers guide.
6. Source Authentic Materials:
Fall is a fantastic time to find authentic materials for your renovation. Many salvage yards and antique shops have seasonal sales or introduce new inventory during this period. This can be a great opportunity to find materials that seamlessly blend with your home’s original style. Not only do reclaimed materials lend a timeless, authentic feel to your home, but they are also an eco-friendly choice. Plus, sourcing from salvage yards and antique shops can often be more cost-effective than buying items new, especially during sales.
7. Refresh or Repair Your Deck:
Your deck’s longevity depends on regular maintenance, and fall is an ideal time to give it the attention it needs before winter weather takes a toll. Inspect the wood for signs of splintering, warping, or rot, and check for any loose nails or railings that need tightening or replacing. If the wood looks worn, consider re-staining or re-painting it to protect it from moisture and freezing temperatures. For deck stripping, the Speedheater 8-Cut Scraper is specifically developed to make the complete stripping process go faster.
8. Power wash your exterior:
When done correctly, a proper power wash can remove hazards such as mold and mildew. A power wash can also help to remove the buildup of debris, revealing the true color of your home’s exterior! Additionally, power washing prepares surfaces for new paint or sealant, ensuring better adhesion and a longer-lasting finish. As for power washing, safety is paramount. Wear protective goggles, hold the nozzle at a safe distance, and avoid using high-pressure settings on delicate areas to prevent damage.
9. Clean and Inspect Your Chimney:
If you have a fireplace, fall is the time to get your chimney cleaned and inspected. Creosote buildup and blockages can create fire hazards, especially as you start using your fireplace more in the colder months. A professional chimney sweep can help ensure that your fireplace and chimney are safe and ready for use, giving you peace of mind before winter arrives.
10. Restore Original Features:
The fall season, with its cooler weather, is perfect for restoring original features such as woodwork and fixtures. The stable climate helps prevent warping and cracking and allows for meticulous work, ensuring that these distinctive elements are carefully preserved and enhanced to tell your home’s unique story. Tools like infrared paint removers allow for more controlled paint stripping without damaging the original structure beneath, helping you preserve the historic integrity of your home’s features. If you are thinking of restoring an item of period furniture, our Furniture Restoration Bundle is the answer for faster, cleaner, and safer paint and varnish stripping.
Taking a proactive approach to home renovations and maintenance this fall ensures your home is not only ready to withstand the challenges of winter but is also enhanced for next year. From minor touch-ups to major repairs, these seasonal fall upgrades will help you to enjoy a more comfortable, energy-efficient, and beautiful home.
