Autumn Cozy Home Essentials
Prep Tips to Protect, Pamper, and Perfect Your Space
Fall in Texas doesn’t always mean crisp, cool days and colorful leaves. Some years, it can feel like summer into November. Even if sweater weather comes late, autumn is the perfect time to prep your home for the months ahead.
Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Even if you don’t have a yard full of oaks, Texas trees shed plenty in the fall. Clear out leaves and debris, and make sure downspouts direct water away from your house.
Protect Against Pests
As the temperatures dip, critters go looking for warm places to hide. Seal gaps around doors, windows, and your foundation. Trim back trees and shrubs that touch your roofline, and consider a fall pest control treatment.
Prep Your Yard and Garden
Fall is the ideal time to fertilize your lawn in Texas, giving grass roots the nutrients they need to stay strong through winter. Rake up leaves so they don’t smother your turf, and mulch garden beds to insulate plants. Drain and store hoses.
Clean the Fireplace
If you plan on lighting some cozy fires this fall and winter, definitely make sure to clean the fireplace. Call a chimney sweep, or to DIY, lay down newspaper to protect the area, remove loose ashes and dust, use a wire brush to clean the brick, and finish by wiping away the remaining soot with warm water and baking soda.
Check Safety Essentials
With more time spent indoors, now’s the season to test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms. You should replace the batteries once a year — Fall Forward in Daylight Savings Time is a good time to remember – even for hardwired systems because they use a battery for backup.
Set the Atmosphere
There’s nothing more comforting than a candle glimmering next to you while spending a night in. Scents like cedarwood, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie are perfect choices to infuse your space with a warm and inviting fall vibe.
A Little Prep Goes a Long Way
Taking care of these fall to-dos ensures your home is comfortable, safe, and ready for anything — whether it’s a warm Thanksgiving, an early freeze, or a house full of holiday guests.
