Top Fall Home Renovation Projects
When it comes to taking on our home improvement or renovation projects, many of us choose the summer season to do so. This is often due to the warmer climate and overall sunnier weather. However, just like there are tasks we should only think of completing during that time of year, there are also those that are best done in the cooler months. Fall is considered the off-season for many professional contractors and, as such, it’s common for us to forget about these days as being an option. But, fortunately, as you tackle these top fall home renovation projects, you’ll find that is anything but the truth.
Repaint Interior and Exterior
Painting, both the interior and exterior, is one of those projects that many of us do to freshen things up for the spring and summer. But, believe it or not, paint products are actually better at curing to a surface when it’s cool outside. Lowered temperatures tend to sap moisture from the air and keep humidity at a minimum. Without the excess water in the environment, your products will dry much quicker and form a better seal along the walls.
It’s important to remember, though, that you shouldn’t start this type of task if it’s already too cold outside. Temperatures below 45 degrees Fahrenheit will cause your paint to dry out faster, but, in doing so, it’s less likely to properly stick to the walls or siding. For this reason, the preferred weather for painting projects is at least 50 degrees and dry.
Fill Cracks in Driveways and Walkways
Fixing cracks and gaps in your outdoor concrete is also a top fall home renovation project to consider during the fall months. This is because, like paint, epoxy or latex patching products don’t dry as quickly in hot or humid climates. So, when you’re looking for a way to finally level out those gouges in your walk and driveways, this time of year offers the highest success rate. Additionally, when the earth freezes, it causes moisture in the dirt to expand and force cracks further apart. For this reason, it’s often better to accomplish this task now rather than later.
Clean and Fix Gutter Systems
Make sure that you’re devoting some of your efforts to cleaning and repairing your gutter system as well. These fixtures are key to keeping the water from melting snow off your foundation and, inevitably, seeping into your home. As such, you want your downspouts to be clear and well-secured to properly direct the water. You can even choose to install mesh guards over the top of your system to prevent excessive quantities of leaves from falling into the drainage pipe as the seasons change. Just be sure that you’re consulting a professional with any complex fixes or replacements, as it’s crucial that your system functions correctly.
Install Insulation in the Attic
You may also choose to install insulation in areas of your home that don’t currently have any. Attics, in particular, are rarely insulated upon construction, and they’re the primary place where indoor heat escapes. Due to this, many homeowners undergo this improvement simply to cut back on their heating expenses. Insulated attics also allow you to better diversify how you use that space. With more heat in this part of the home, you can start storing more temperature-sensitive items or even turn it into another room.
You should consider installing additional insulation in other areas as well, such as around the windows and doors. Like the attic, these places are prone to letting heat out and wasting energy. So, while you’re inspecting them for leaks and gaps, take some time to ensure your home stays comfortable through the winter.
Replace Missing Roof Shingles
Though your roof might look fine from where you’re standing on the ground, there could be several missing shingles you’re not noticing. This can become a problem in the winter should the snow pile up and melt into your unprotected attic. As such, use this season to perform a thorough inspection of your roof and replace any missing or broken shingles before it leads to water damage. This is another project that you’ll want to hire a professional for, as doing work on the roof can be dangerous for those who haven’t been trained.
Repair Damaged or Rotten Wood
This is also a great time to get rid of any rotten sections of wood along the exterior of your home. Since humidity is the main cause of wood rot, it commonly develops during the spring and summer months. For this reason, it’s recommended that you get the wood repaired or fully replaced before it begins to snow. The moisture produced when the snow melts can further sink into the wood and facilitate additional rot growth, making your home less structurally sound over time. So, addressing this issue now can save you a lot of trouble and money later down the line.
Build or Fix Up Your Deck or Patio
Last, but certainly not least, fall is perfect for starting any home additions or exterior adjustments. As mentioned previously, this time of year is considered to be the off-season for professionals. Therefore, it’s one of the only periods where you can get a great deal on deck or patio projects. These deals can save you thousands of dollars and help you get the most out of your budget. Northern Atlanta’s dry climate also makes performing these tasks easier, which, in turn, reduces the amount of time the project will take as a whole. This means that you won’t have to worry about managing a prolonged job, and you’ll get to enjoy your new space much sooner.
For assistance with any of your home renovating endeavors this fall, give us at Bear Mountain Custom Painting a call. We offer top-notch painting and remodeling services, with skilled professionals that are dedicated to providing you with the results you’re after. We also specialize in a diverse range of projects to ensure that we can help with whatever your home may need—whether it be traditional painting or gutter installation.