Late summer in New York is among the best places anywhere to enjoy warm days, cooler nights, and just enough time to tackle essential home projects before fall arrives. Whether you’re looking to protect your investment, boost curb appeal, or simply make your home winter-ready, the next few weeks are your golden window.
Here’s your Late-Summer Homeowner’s Checklist to stay ahead of the season.
Protect and Winterize Your Deck or Patio
After months of sun, rain, and heavy foot traffic, decks and patios need attention before the cold sets in.
- Clean thoroughly to remove dirt, pollen, and mildew.
- Inspect for loose boards or nails that could worsen in freezing weather.
- Stain or seal to guard against snow and ice damage.
Pro Tip: A fresh coat of stain now will help prevent warping, splitting, and expensive repairs next spring.
Trim Back Overgrown Landscaping
Summer growth can get out of hand quickly. Trimming trees, shrubs, and overhanging branches in late summer will:
- Improve your home’s curb appeal.
- Reduce the risk of storm damage from falling limbs.
- Prevent pests from nesting too close to your house.
If you’ve let brush or yard debris pile up, now is the time to schedule removal so you’re not dealing with soggy, frozen messes later.
Touch Up Exterior Paint and Siding
The end of summer is ideal for addressing peeling paint, fading color, or damaged siding:
- Repair small cracks before moisture gets in and freezes.
- Repaint high-traffic or weather-beaten areas to protect your home’s structure.
- Wash siding to remove dust, grime, and algae buildup.
Even a few small touch-ups now can save you from major repairs next spring.
Declutter and Junk Removal Before Winter Storage
Before holiday decorations, snow shovels, and winter gear take over, clear out your garage, shed, or basement.
- Donate unused items.
- Dispose of broken furniture or equipment.
- Free up space for easy access to snow blowers, salt, and winter supplies.
Bonus: You’ll start fall with a clean, organized home, and maybe even room for that new snow blower you’ve been eyeing.
Seal Gaps and Inspect Weatherproofing
Cold drafts and heat loss can cost you hundreds in winter energy bills. Before temperatures drop:
- Check door and window seals.
- Replace worn weatherstripping.
- Caulk gaps around pipes, vents, and siding.
Late summer is also a smart time to inspect energy-efficient windows and schedule replacements before winter demand peaks.
Why Act Now?
NY weather changes fast, and once the first cold snap hits, these projects become harder, or more expensive to complete. By tackling them now, you’ll:
- Protect your home from seasonal wear and tear.
- Save on heating costs.
- Increase your home’s value and curb appeal.
Need help with your late-summer checklist?
From deck staining to brush removal, exterior painting, junk hauling, and weatherproofing, the Todo List Services team makes fall prep easy. We handle the hard work so you can enjoy a worry-free transition into the cooler months. Call or Contact us today!
