TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) -- When the weather is crisp, leaves are falling and football is on TV, it can be easy to ignore fall chores. But if you want to stay cozy and avoid costly problems this winter, you better get to work.
In this Angie's List report, the three projects every homeowner should cross off their checklist.
Gutter cleaning isn't glamorous, but it's one of the most important jobs on any fall to-do list. Otherwise, the leaves there can mold… not to mention bugs.
And whether you do it yourself or hire a pro, don't neglect the downspouts when cleaning.
"You also want to make sure that all of your gutters are actually nailed in properly and look at your gutter boards and make sure that they are sealed," said handyman Elden Foltz.
Once your gutters are clear, turn your attention to sealing drafts around windows and doors.
Walk through your home with a lit candle or stick of incense to see where cold air is seeping in. otherwise you're losing heat… and money.
When sealing a window, make sure the area is free from dust and old paint or caulk.
"You can't take caulking and put caulking over top of it because all it's going to do is peel and break off. And it's not going to provide a good seal for that house,” said Foltz.
Finally, Angie's List says remember the grass. If you're not comfortable fertilizing your own lawn, consider hiring a professional lawn care company, which usually costs $60 per application.
"Many people think this time of the year, 'Oh, I'm done with the lawn. I don't even want to mow anymore.' But the treatments you give your lawn, the fertilizing, this time of the year is the most important fertilizing you'll have. So, you if you're looking to have a great lawn next spring, don't skip out on the fall lawn care,” explains Angie Hicks of Angie’s List.
Angie's List says fall is also the perfect time to check your furnace filters and replace if necessary. You should also have your chimney cleaned and inspected.
Remember to catch the latest Angie’s List report every Tuesday on WTXL Sunrise.
