The Gritty Jobs to Do Around the Home This Season

At different times of the year, we all need to be thinking about the different things we need to be doing around the home. And when you think about it, there are always going to be those jobs that you mean to get around to but never do. Take a moment to step outside and inspect the exterior of your house. Are the gutters clear? Are the doors and windows in good condition? How about the landscaping—is it a little overgrown? Although it may not be the most glamorous or exciting thing to think about, taking care of these gritty home projects now can save you time, money, and headaches down the road. So let’s take a look at what you might want to prioritize over the next coming months.

Get Your Gutters in Gear

A dirty or overflowing gutter system can lead to major problems like water damage, erosion, and insect infestations. So you’re always going to find that gutter cleaning is a good idea. You could also grab a ladder, cleaning solution, and a pair of gloves and remove all debris from your gutters. Make sure to inspect for any holes or loose ends and tighten them up as necessary. A clogged gutter can eventually overflow and damage the foundation of your home, so schedule a cleaning at least twice a year to keep things running smoothly.

Give Your Windows a Wash

Dirty windows can really bring down the aesthetic of your home. Grit, dust, and fingerprints can accumulate over time and create a build-up that is tough to remove. So next, you’re going to want to take a step back and assess how many windows you have. Work out if you can do them all in one go or if you need to break them up into sections. Then mix up a cleaning solution of water and vinegar or soap and water and use a squeegee or microfiber cloth to remove dirt from your windows. Or, you could hire a window cleaner to take care of it for you.

Don’t Forget Your Landscaping

Next, take a look at your lawn. All year round you can work on your landscaping maintenance. Use a rake or leaf blower to gather up any debris from your yard, prune any overgrown shrubs or trees, and make sure all outdoor hoses and faucets are properly insulated for the winter. By taking care of your landscaping needs year-round, your garden will always be gorgeous to use when the weather calls for it.

Inspect Your Heating System

And finally, the last thing you want on an unexpectedly cold night is to be without heat. So make sure to schedule a maintenance appointment or clean your furnace filter to ensure your heating system is in tip-top shape. If you find that your heating system is more than 15 years old, it might be time to invest in a new one. Keep in mind, an efficient heating system can save you money on utility bills, increase your home’s value, and keep you warm and comfortable regardless of the outside temperature so it will always be worth it.

CLEAN OUT YOUR DRYER VENT

Over time, your dryer vent can become clogged with lint, dust, and other debris, which can reduce the efficiency of your dryer and even pose a fire hazard. To clean out your dryer vent, start by unplugging your dryer and pulling it away from the wall. Then, disconnect the vent hose from the back of the dryer and use a vent cleaning brush or vacuum attachment to remove any debris from the hose and the vent on the outside of your home. Finally, reattach the hose and plug in your dryer.

CHECK YOUR SUMP PUMP

If you have a basement or a crawlspace, it’s important to make sure your sump pump is in good working order. A sump pump helps prevent flooding by pumping water out of your home’s foundation when the water table rises above a certain level. To check your sump pump, pour a bucket of water into the sump pit and make sure the pump turns on and pumps the water out. If your sump pump is not working properly, it may need to be replaced.

SEAL UP YOUR HOME

Drafts and air leaks can cause your home to lose heat in the winter and cool air in the summer, which can increase your energy bills and make your home less comfortable. To seal up your home, start by caulking around windows and doors, and sealing any gaps or cracks in your walls, floors, or ceilings. You can also install weatherstripping around doors and windows, and add insulation to your attic or crawl space.

CLEAN YOUR APPLIANCES

Your appliances work hard to keep your home running smoothly, so it’s important to take care of them. To keep your appliances in good working order, start by cleaning your refrigerator coils, which can become coated in dust and dirt over time and reduce the efficiency of your fridge. You can also clean your oven and stove, including the burners and grates, and clean out your dishwasher by running a cycle with vinegar or baking soda.

I hope these additional tips help you tackle some of the gritty jobs around your home this season!

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Josie Smith