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It’s the middle of summer and nobody wants to think about going back to school, leaves changing colors, days getting shorter, and least of all, snow. But for homeowners, now is the perfect time to start planning ahead for New England fall and winter. 

The team of experts at Diamond Hill Builders have seven helpful ideas to help you plan ahead to get your home ready for fall and winter.

Take care of minor home repairs

Replace cracked concrete stairs, fix broken windows or doors to prevent drafts, repair rotted decking and wood before cold weather arrives.

Clean your chimney

If you want to have a fire when the weather turns cold, hire a professional to inspect and clean your chimney.

Pay attention to gutters

Clean them regularly and think about installing gutter guards to prevent debris from collecting.

Look for cracks

Check around your doors and windows for small cracks which can lead to drafts. Also look at your foundation for cracks and immediately address any issue there which may lead to larger problems.

Care for your lawn

Regularly mow your lawn through the end of the season, overseed your grass about one month prior to the first frost so it gets established, use your mulching mower on leaves so they decompose and nourish your soil, turn your garden beds, and turn off your outdoor water systems and drain your hoses.

Check your heating system

Before the cold weather really hits, turn on your heating system to make sure everything is running properly so you can address any problems before it’s too cold.

Remove dead trees or limbs

Cut down any dead wood before the snow, ice, and wind of the winter dislodges them onto your house.

If you’re ready to get started on a new project in Exeter, Portsmouth, Kensington, Stratham, or elsewhere on the Seacoast, let us know. We’d love to work with you!

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