It’s time to get your yard ready for fall. Depending on where you live, you might welcome cooler weather or be holding out for a few more warm, sunny days. Either way, summer is ending and now is the moment to prepare the exterior of your home for the change in season. What steps can you take now to make fall and winter easier on your yard and household?
We recently added a puppy to the family and quickly discovered how much dirt and mud a small, energetic dog can track into the yard. That made me think about practical updates that will help during rainy days and muddy seasons: more stepping stones, better paths, and areas that drain well. It’s much better to do these jobs on a warm, dry day than to wait until it’s cold and wet. Below are five sensible, doable projects to tackle now that will save time and hassle later.
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Five backyard and exterior projects to prepare for fall
1. Do some late-summer landscaping: add fresh gravel, stepping stones, and fall plantings.
Improving walkways with gravel or stepping stones reduces mud and keeps high-traffic areas neat through wet months. Fall is also a great time to plant bulbs and perennials that need cooler temperatures to thrive. You don’t need a complete overhaul—small, targeted updates can make a big difference in usability and curb appeal.
- Refresh paths with gravel or compacted stone to improve drainage and reduce muddy spots.
- Add stepping stones in high-traffic areas to protect turf and keep shoes cleaner.
- Plant cool-season bulbs and shrubs now so they establish roots before winter.
2. Freshen and touch up exterior paint.
Late summer and early fall are perfect for exterior touch-ups—painting trim, fences, doors, and siding while the weather is still cooperative. Fresh paint protects wood and siding from moisture and pests, boosts curb appeal, and can prevent more costly repairs later. Also inspect and recaulk around windows and doors before rainy weather arrives.
- Inspect painted surfaces for flaking, peeling, or exposed wood.
- Spot-prime and repaint trim and doors to seal and protect surfaces.
- Caulk gaps around windows, doors, and trim to prevent water infiltration.
3. Clean patios, furniture, and umbrellas.
Summer pollen, dust, and debris can accumulate on outdoor furniture and umbrellas. Clean these items now so you can enjoy them for any remaining warm days and then store them properly for winter. Proper cleaning and drying before storage also helps prevent mildew and fabric damage.
- Wipe down or pressure-wash hard surfaces like patios and decks.
- Clean cushions and fabrics according to manufacturer instructions and let them dry completely.
- Store or cover furniture and umbrellas in a dry place to protect against moisture and pests.
4. Clean and organize your garage or shed to make room for outdoor cushions and garden tools.
A cluttered garage or shed makes it harder to store seasonal items and creates hazards when you need access in cold weather. Clearing space now for cushions, hoses, tools, and holiday gear will make winter transitions smoother. Donate or discard items you no longer need, and use shelving or clear bins to keep things organized and protected.
- Sort items into keep, donate, and discard piles before rearranging storage.
- Create dedicated spots for cushions, decor, tools, and seasonal equipment.
- Use labeled bins and wall-mounted racks to keep the floor clear and make items easy to find.
5. Clean gutters and downspouts.
Clearing gutters and downspouts prevents clogs that can lead to water backup and damage to roofs, fascia, and foundations. Removing leaves, debris, and nests is unpleasant but important—doing it on a dry day reduces risk and makes the job safer and more effective.
- Remove debris from gutters and flush downspouts with water to ensure proper flow.
- Check gutter hangers, seals, and flashing for damage and repair as needed.
- Consider hiring a professional if you’re uncomfortable on ladders or if your roofline is steep.
What is one home maintenance task you’re dreading but need to complete before fall?