A home refresh doesn’t have to be reserved for spring. Fall is the ideal time to show your home some love and well-deserved attention, especially with the temperature changes. From addressing those back-of-the-mind tasks to completing those necessary home inspections, it’s time to give your humble abode a check-up to keep things running smoothly.

Have a Game Plan

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when you’re setting out to tackle those chores you’ve left on the backburner. Skip the haphazard approach and opt for a measured course of action. First, take a survey of your home, inside and out. As you assess your home, check every nook and cranny—those overlooked spots you often pass by on the daily. Remember, you’re not only looking for cosmetic fixes but rather those much-needed maintenance updates.

An Inside Inspection

You want to keep your Ponderosa home looking like it’s in near-mint condition, like on move-in day. But what’s crucial is that it remains safe, secure and in tip-top shape. That’s why it’s a must to take care of the essentials first. By simply installing fresh batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, you’re guaranteeing your family’s safety in case of emergencies. To that end, you want to be prepared for any occasion, so it’s important to take a moment to review or create (if you haven’t done so) your emergency preparedness kit, restocking supplies and verifying that everything is up-to-date and easily accessible.

Next, head to any areas where water flows, e.g., your bathrooms and kitchen, and inspect the caulk and grout, recoating and regrouting as needed to prevent water damage and maintain a neat appearance. While you’re in the kitchen, focus on cleaning the range hood filter and inside of your oven to eliminate grease buildup and food residue and to keep your appliances looking spick-and-span. Don’t forget the laundry room—cleaning lint out of your dryer hose and vent will not only improve performance but also reduce the risk of fires.

You’ll want to make sure all systems are always go. That’s why it’s important to check whether your HVAC is running efficiently and effectively. Make an effort to replace your air conditioner filters monthly—this simple task will not only improve indoor air quality but also reduce energy bills year-round. One of the perks of being a Ponderosa homeowner is that we make it easy to keep your home in top form. Just log in to your Dwelling Live account to access your handy Ponderosa Homes maintenance manual, which will advise you on all suggested maintenance for your home.

An Outside Look

Clean. Repair. Repeat. Now that you’ve taken care of business inside the home, it’s time to shift your focus outside. Your exterior is the barrier between you and the elements, so it’s vital to take the necessary steps to keep it protected. First up, clear leaves and debris from your gutters and downspouts to maintain proper water flow and prevent damage. You’ll want to check that water flows away from your home’s foundation to avoid erosion and potential structural issues.

Similar to what you did for your kitchen and bathrooms, inspect the caulking and weather-stripping around windows and doors, repairing any gaps or damage to keep a tight seal and prevent heat loss. You’ll also want to examine your siding, stucco and masonry for signs of wear or damage and address any issues quickly to prevent costly repairs. Most importantly, put in a service request through Ponderosa Homes to have your roof inspected by a qualified professional who can help you identify potential problems and provide guidance on what repairs are needed.

Once you’ve addressed the necessities, it’s time to check for potential cosmetic repairs. Start by taking a closer look at your home’s exterior finish. Take care of any areas that need touch-ups, showing fading or chipping, to keep up the curb appeal.

Don’t Forget the Landscaping

You’ve dotted your i’s and crossed your t’s on the major stuff. Now it’s time to turn your attention to the scene that sets the first impression­. With the change of season comes the falling of leaves, which means it’s time to rake them and tend to any shrubs or trees that need trimming. And with alfresco season behind us, it’s best to clean and store your patio furniture. Last but certainly not least, check and seal any cracks in your driveway, walkway and patios.

With a little planning and elbow grease, you can enjoy a worry-free winter and a warm, welcoming home that’s perfect for cozying up with loved ones. By staying on top of maintenance, you’ll be free to focus on the things that matter most—making memories with family and friends in the home you love.

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