​Get Ready for Fall: 9 Essential Home Preparation Tips

As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, now is a good time to prepare a home for the coming colder months – and add a little seasonal beauty too. Westlake Ace Hardware offers these nine essential tips to help transition any home smoothly into the months ahead.

INSIDE YOUR HOME:

• Change Furnace Filters – Changing your furnace filters regularly isn't just about maintaining good indoor air quality; it can also lead to significant cost savings. When your furnace filter is clogged with dirt, dust, and debris, your heating system has to work harder to push air through, which can result in higher energy consumption and, consequently, increased utility bills.
• Fire Prevention Month – October is National Fire Prevention Month. Take this opportunity to change the batteries in all your smoke detectors. It's a small action that can make a big difference in keeping your family safe.
• Keep Rodents Out – As the weather cools, rodents may seek refuge in your home. Seal any cracks or gaps in your home's foundation, doors, and windows to prevent unwanted guests. Consider placing traps or deterrents in areas prone to infestations.

OUTSIDE YOUR HOME:

• Get Your Lawn in Shape – After a long, hot summer, lawns are very hungry right now, so start by fertilizing to ensure your grass greens up nicely come spring. Make three applications of high-nitrogen, slow-release fertilizer like Scotts Turf Builder Fall Lawn Food between September and late November.
• Trim Plants and Clear Leaves – Tidy up your outdoor landscaping by pruning any dead or overgrown plants in your garden. It’s also a good idea to stock up on lawn bags to prepare for the multitude of fallen leaves. To minimize the number of lawn bags you’ll need, gather leaves into piles and mulch them with a mower. You can also use mulched leaves as protection around perennial plants during chilly weather.
• Prep for Colder Temperatures – As temperatures drop, remember to drain and disconnect rain barrels and hoses to prevent freezing. If you have potted plants, consider bringing them indoors to protect them from cold nights and apply an insecticide to prevent unwanted pests from hitching a ride inside.

BEAUTIFY AND ENJOY THE SEASON:

• Invest in a Fire Pit – Today’s fire pits come in a wide range of styles and sizes. Whether you prefer a modern, sleek design, or a rustic, traditional look, there’s a fire pit to suit your taste. Some models like the Solo Stove, are known for their efficient and smokeless design, providing a comfortable and enjoyable experience for gathering with family and friends.
• Swap Out Summer Flowers – Replace your summer annuals with ornamental grasses and colorful mums to add a touch of autumn charm to your outdoor pots and flower beds. For additional impact on your patio or front porch, spray paint several clay pots in rich autumn colors and add mums, pumpkins, kale, and pansies for instant curb appeal.
• Add Outdoor Lighting – With shorter days on the horizon, consider adding outdoor lighting to enhance both the aesthetic and safety of your outdoor space. Hang string lights along a fence, place candles on tables and harness the sun’s light with solar-powered lights.