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Published by Press release
Fall may be a beautiful time of year, but, for many, it is stressful. School is back in session, the days are getting shorter, and holidays are fast approaching. One may feel like there is lots to do without enough time.
Here’s a list of things you can do now to save you trouble when the weather gets cold, and you are too busy to catch up.
Pest-proof the home
Pest problems are very common in the fall because pests want to escape the cold. Look for holes and openings in your outer walls and seal them shut to keep pests out. Fix your window screens and put some weatherstripping on the bottoms of your doors. Remember that mice can squeeze through holes merely 6mm wide – the width of a ballpoint pen.
If you are currently facing a pest problem and need help, contact exterminators in Whitby or near you. A licensed technician can get rid of the infestation quickly and pest-proof your property for you, so this does not happen again. Many companies provide warranties with their work. So, if pests come back, so will the exterminator.
Clean and declutter
Living and working in a cluttered environment can make you feel anxious and unable to focus. Take the afternoon off or spend some time this weekend to start decluttering your living space. Organize your closets and donate the things you don’t need anymore. You’ll have room to bring out your holiday decorations and receive guests without breaking a sweat.
Clean the gutters
When is the last time you cleaned your gutters? If you own a house, don’t forget that your gutters need maintenance. Gutters that are full of leaves and debris will cause water to flood into the basement. You also risk attracting squirrels and other critters onto the roof. Grab a ladder and a gutter scoop and clean out your gutters completely. When you’re done, run the garden hose down your gutters and check that the water runs smoothly.
Put away patio furniture
Get some waterproof covers for your patio furniture or find a place for them in storage. This will extend the lifetime of your furniture, avoiding the damages caused by rain, snow, and freezing temperatures. You can find covers of all shapes and sizes online. Protecting your outdoor furniture will also make setup easier in the spring because you’ll have less cleanup to do.
Drain outdoor faucets
An easy yet often forgotten task is to drain your outdoor faucets and hoses before it gets too cold. Water expands when it freezes, tearing holes in the hose and bursting pipes. Close the valve to your outdoor faucet, then turn the faucet on to let all the water out. Disconnect the garden hose, drain it, then put it away where it can be dry.
Fix drafts
Drafts let cold air get into the house, decreasing your home’s energy efficiency. To check for drafts, hold a lit candle in your hands and stand near a window or a door. If the flame flickers, there is a draft. Check your window frames for cracks and seal them with caulking. You can also try adding locks or weatherstripping to your windows, which will create a better seal. Put weatherstripping on the bottoms of your doors to the outside and use door snakes for unheated rooms.
Plan for holidays
Family gatherings and can be very stressful. Take a moment this weekend to figure out who is hosting your annual holidays and what you can do to save yourself some time. You can make travel reservations while prices are still low, and brainstorm gift ideas before stores are busy and things sell out online. If you’re going to host something, think of what you want to serve your guests and consider cooking things ahead of time.
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