As the Aussie summer winds down, now’s the perfect time to give your home some TLC before the cooler months kick in.
We all know how unpredictable the weather can be—one minute it’s warm and sunny, and the next, you’re battling chilly winds and heavy rain.
By sorting out a few key outdoor tasks now, you’ll save yourself from last-minute scrambles when autumn arrives. Plus, a little effort today can prevent costly repairs and keep your home in top shape all year round.
So, before you swap outdoor BBQs for cozy nights inside, roll up your sleeves and tackle these essential jobs!
Clear out the gutters before the rain hits
Gutters play a crucial role in keeping rainwater away from your home, but they can quickly become clogged with leaves, twigs, and debris. Blocked gutters lead to water damage, sagging, and even pest problems—none of which you want to deal with during a downpour.
Give them a good clean-out, check for rust or cracks, and repair any sagging sections before autumn storms roll in. If they’re in bad shape, consider replacing them now rather than waiting for a leak to ruin your roofline.
Check your roof for wear and tear
Your roof takes a beating all year long, and even small issues can lead to big problems when the rain sets in. Look out for missing or damaged shingles, water stains in your ceiling, or any sunlight peeking through in the attic.
If you spot any trouble areas, get a professional in sooner rather than later—fixing a minor issue now is far cheaper than dealing with a full-blown leak in the middle of winter.
Upgrade your home’s insulation
If your house tends to feel like an icebox in winter, now’s the time to do something about it. Many older Aussie homes lack proper insulation, making them cold in winter and hot in summer.
Check your roof, walls, and underfloor areas for gaps where heat escapes. Adding or upgrading insulation can make a massive difference in comfort and energy efficiency—not to mention cutting down on those heating bills.
Give your lawn a little love
Just because summer’s ending doesn’t mean your lawn should be ignored. A bit of care now will help keep it green and healthy year-round.
Aerate the soil, apply a slow-release fertilizer, and keep up with watering while the weather is still mild. A little effort in late summer means you won’t be dealing with a dry, patchy mess when spring rolls back around.
Show your deck some TLC
After a season of BBQs and foot traffic, your deck might be looking a little worse for wear. If the wood looks dry or faded, now’s the time for a quick sand and reseal.
A fresh coat of sealant will protect it from moisture damage over winter, preventing warping, cracking, and rot. Take care of it now, and your deck will be ready to shine again when the warm weather returns.
Seal up those pesky drafts
Nothing sucks the warmth out of your home faster than sneaky cold drafts. Check around windows, doors, and skylights for gaps and cracks.
Sealing these up with weather stripping or caulk can prevent up to 40 per cent of heat loss—meaning a warmer home and lower energy bills. It’s a small fix that makes a big difference once the temperatures drop.
Refresh your garden with mulch
A little garden maintenance now will save you from a jungle of weeds later. Pull out any unwanted growth and add a fresh layer of mulch to protect your soil from heavy rain and temperature drops.
Mulching helps retain moisture, prevents erosion, and keeps weeds at bay—all while making your garden beds look neat and tidy.
Get your pool ready for winter
If you won’t be using your pool much during the cooler months, don’t just leave it to fend for itself. Skim out debris, balance the pH levels, and clean the filters to keep things in top shape.
For a hassle-free transition, consider using a pool cover to prevent leaves and dirt from building up. If you’re not keen on the maintenance yourself, booking a professional service now can save you from nasty surprises when summer returns.
Make your patio a year-round retreat
Just because summer’s ending doesn’t mean you have to say goodbye to your outdoor space! With a few tweaks, your patio can be a cozy retreat all year long.
Invest in an outdoor heater, add some comfy rugs, or install a retractable awning for extra shelter. This way, you can still enjoy fresh air—even when there’s a chill in the air.
A little work now, big savings later
By ticking off these outdoor tasks before summer fully fades away, you’ll keep your home in top shape and avoid nasty surprises when the seasons change.
So, grab your to-do list, put on some sunscreen, and make the most of the warm weather while you still can—your future self will be glad you did!
