Before you put the pumpkins on the porch, take a look at the trim behind them.
Fall is a good time to check what needs attention around your home, especially before decorating or getting ready for guests.
You don’t have to tackle everything at once. Start with repairs that protect your home, then think about the changes you’d enjoy.
Check Exterior Paint and Woodwork
Look around window frames, doorways, porch columns and the edges of your roof. Peeling paint, swollen wood and open seams deserve attention.
Fresh paint won’t fix deteriorating wood. The damaged material needs repair or replacement, and the source of moisture needs to be addressed before painting.
If most of your exterior is in good condition, repairing and painting a few problem areas may be enough. A full repaint isn’t always the next step.
Watch Where Rainwater Goes
Falling leaves can collect in gutters, so check for overflow, leaking joints and downspouts that leave water pooling beside the house.
Sometimes cleaning solves the problem. Other times, gutters need repair or replacement. Check the fascia, the board behind the gutters, for damage too. If you’re replacing gutters, coordinate any wood repairs and painting before the new ones go up.
Give Your Porch a Closer Look
Before covering the steps with pumpkins, check the railings, posts and walking surfaces. Loose rails and damaged boards should come before cosmetic updates.
If everything is sound, a cleaning or fresh paint on the door and trim may be all your entrance needs. Painted or stained porch floors also deserve a look for worn areas where bare wood is exposed.
Plan Indoor Projects Around Everyday Life
As you spend more time inside, you may notice scuffed hallways, marked doors or a guest room that’s been waiting for attention.
Start with the space you use most or the room you’d like ready for company. Painting one room, refreshing trim or repairing drywall can make a noticeable difference without taking on the whole house.
Make a Plan That Fits Your Home
A useful fall checklist should help you set priorities. Address moisture problems and damaged materials first, then plan painting and other updates around your budget and schedule.
Let Revive help you get your home ready for fall. From wood repairs and gutters to exterior painting or a fresh look indoors, we’ll help you decide where to start and make a plan that works for you.
The Revive Home Journal
Ideas, inspiration, and expert advice for creating a home you love.