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Warm fall days are perfect for outdoor maintenance—window washing, leaf raking, blowing out gutters and cleaning and stashing garden pots and gear. But they’re also good for tackling indoor projects. Here are a few to consider.
Last chance for a curb alert
You know it’s coming—the holidays—which means more stuff is likely heading your way in the form of gifts and home accessories you buy to make your nest cozier and prettier for entertaining. Fall days are perfect for hauling unwanted furniture, lamps, rugs, toys, etc. out to the curb or to a local charity.
Stock the hearth
If you have a wood burning fireplace you may want to take the opportunity to get it ready for primetime. Clean out the firebox or have it professionally swept. Bring in wood to stack in a log rack, basket or in a nearby closet, or purchase a few bundles of birch logs to dress it up.
Assess your linens
How did the flannel sheets hold up last year? What about the throw blankets and pillows? Now is a good time to check it all out, wash what needs washing and have them ready to go for cold nights and chilly evenings on the couch. Give away what you can no longer use and recycle (rags, paint drop cloths, your dog’s kennel) items that are in poor condition.
Turn up the heat
It’s inevitable that you’ll have to fire up the furnace. If you have a forced-air system it’s important to replace the filter. Making sure the radon mitigation system is functioning, if you have one, is also important especially if you spend more time in the basement during the winter. If you haven’t tested for radon, this would be a good time to do it. The MN Department of Health says there is no safe level of radon, so if you have it, you want to get rid of it.
Purge the coat closets and mud room
Keep only what you use, store the flip-flops and sun hats and give everything a good sweeping and wiping down. Take a look at winter coats and have them cleaned and repaired, if necessary. Mate gloves, match up boots. Give away things that no longer fit.
Check out the lighting
Grab a stepladder, walk around the house and give your light fixtures some TLC. Dust lamp shades, remove covers from ceiling fixtures, wipe out the interior, and replace bulbs as needed. Repair broken fixtures or replace them. You’ll appreciate the clean light as the days get shorter.
RE/MAX Results Collection Home
17100 Acorn Ridge
Fabulous Two Story Walkout with Sparkling In-Ground Pool on Stunning Lot Backing up to creek, woods and trails. Dramatic two-story windows and family room, chef’s kitchen boasting a generous granite island, stainless appliances, maple cabinets, butler’s and walk-in pantries and gleaming hickory wood floors. Main floor office with built-ins, luxurious owner’s suite, loft and junior bedrooms with jack and jill bath. Lower level amusement room ideal for grown ups and kids alike. Full bar and walk-out to paver patio and pool. Nicest home in the neighborhood! Cedar Ridge Elementary School, Central Middle School and Eden Prairie High School.
by Laurie Junker
