While cozying up near the fireplace in your house with a pumpkin spice latte or a hot cocoa seems picture perfect for the season, it’s essential to make preparations for your home. And more importantly, to do so on a budget!
Believe it or not, this year has zoomed past and is almost at the finish line. While the current forecast predicts sunny days ahead for quite some time, the final quarter of the year is all about embracing the cooler weather.
Here are some budget friendly, home-maintenance tips in preparation for the highly anticipated fall weather:
Tip #1: Store extra blankets on hand in case your heating units are unable to keep up
When the temperatures start dropping in the coming months, using heaters is always a great idea to make you feel warm and toasty–a lot like your favorite fall drink. However, to prepare for worst-case scenarios, it’s always better to also make sure you have some extra blankets on hand.
Sometimes, repairing heating units can end up being costlier than the alternatives, such as storing extra blankets. Besides, there is no such thing as having “too many blankets,” especially when they’re super soft and perfect to cozy up into.
Tip #2: Keep your medicine cabinet stocked and set aside supplies for a first-aid kit
When the weather begins to get extreme, it may be a safer idea to stay indoors. In such instances, it’s a great idea to stock up on all necessary medicines in case of any health-related emergencies.
Stocking up on ibuprofen is always a good idea, and you can get more affordable substitutes if the branded ones don’t seem to fit your budget.
While you’re at it, setting aside supplies for a first-aid kit may also be helpful. Adhesive bandages, gauze pads, warm and cold compresses and medical tape are some items that could go in your basic first-aid kit. In fact, isn’t it crazy how you can get a mini 12 piece first-aid kit only for $1.99 from Johnson & Johnson?
Tip #3: Seal your windows and doors to prevent cold air from entering your home
Sealing windows and doors can be done through many distinctive ways, all of which are affordable.
You can add weather stripping which usually costs less than $20 at most hardware stores and are usually easy to apply as well. The only thing you need to know is the measurements of your furniture!
Besides weather stripping, you could opt for a method known as caulking to fulfill the same role. Caulk is a material used to seal windows and can also help fix or fill in any cracks or gaps you wish to repair. Caulk is readily available in any department or craft store for around $5.
Alternatively, you can update your curtains with heavier insulated curtains which can trap cold air from penetrating inside your home. You can usually buy these online for less than $40 or look for other options that fit your budget.
Tip #4: Insulate your water pipes
Freezing water pipes is not a fun problem to have during harsh weather conditions.
Pipe insulation is usually inexpensive and can be bought from local hardware stores. This can increase piping efficiency for the season and help preserve energy, which can also reduce utility costs.
Tip #5: Remember to also plan for the fun stuff
While preparations for fall weather may seem a bit daunting, it is important to remember to plan for the fun stuff. The last few months of the year are all about spending quality time with family and friends and the magic of the holidays.
It could be a great idea to plan fun indoor activities and make your own DIY decor to adorn your home for the right season. If buying board games doesn’t fit your budget, you can try inventing your own games to play with your family and friends and celebrate the true holiday spirit.
Decorating your front porch may also be an amusing way to welcome the fall season. Affordable options are available in craft stores like Michael’s especially when they run sales. Now who doesn’t love that?
Clearly, fall preparations don’t have to drain your wallet, especially if you have the right people by your side to turn monotonous tasks into fun little activities.
Explore all your options and alternatives prior to making decisions about your home preparations for the months ahead. Before it gets too far into the season, it may be wise to set aside a budget devoted to preparing and maintaining your home during the together weather.
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