Whether we’re ready or not, fall is just around the corner! Colorado weather has a mind of its own and with that in mind, here are a few things to consider to prepare your home for colder weather.

• Inspect the roof:

  • Use binoculars to look for cracked or damaged shingles and check roof vents for damaged or cracked seals

  • Clean gutters and downspouts. Heavy amounts of water or snow sitting against your foundation can lead to problems later, make sure downspouts are draining away from your home

• Have your furnace serviced and inspected:

  • It's also a good idea to keep filters on hand and check them regularly. A dirty filter not only restricts air flow and makes the unit run harder, it can effect the efficiency of your furnace.  This will also improve the air quality in your home

  • If you find the filters are dirty when changing them on a regular basis consider having your ducts cleaned as well

• Inspect your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors:

  • Change the batteries 

  • If the detectors are over 10 years old, replace them

• Clean the dryer vent:

  • You can hire a professional, or purchase a DIY kit for dryer vent cleaning, it hooks right to your household vacuum and makes this job much easier (don't forget to clean your lint trap after every load!)

• Prep your yard for winter:

  • Aerate and fertilize turf, trim bushes and shrubs

  • Fall is a great time to clear out dying or dead plants and prune perennial plants. Do your research about perennial plants as some will do better if pruned in the Spring

  • Clean up those pesky fall leaves! Leaves can suffocate your grass/turf so be sure to clean them up before snowy weather

  • Drain outside faucets, disconnect hoses and winterize sprinkler system

  • Cover and/or store your outside furniture

  • Clean window wells

  • If you have a gas mower or yard tools, don't forget to winterize those as well 

• Pest Control:

  • Insects and pests don't like the cold weather any more than we do, your warm home can be very inviting. Quarterly pest control can help prevent these pests from moving themselves in for the winter!