Winter prep

DESIGN RECIPES

By CATHY HOBBS

Tribune News Service (TNS) F all is a time of transition from warm days to cooler nights. It is also an ideal time to begin to prepare for winter. Here are some quick home maintenance tips that are perfect for your Fall checklist.

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Close the pool. There is a saying that “the leaves will tell you.” You will not want to waste energy or risk clogging your pool with leaves.

■ Winterize outdoor kitchens and showers.

■ Clean gutters and make sure there are no issues or clogs.

■ Clean your replace and chimney. This should be done annually.

■ Repave the driveway or ll with loose gravel if an unpaved driveway.

■ Prune and mulch landscape.

■ Check the roof for any damage or repairs.

■ Fix/repair any fences or gates.

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Check emergency supplies. Make sure if a storm were to come, you are stocked, ready and prepared.

■ Check equipment such as hot water heaters, HVAC units and boilers.

Cathy Hobbs, based in New York City, is an Emmy Award-winning television host and a nationally known interior design home staging expert and short-term rental/vacation home designer with offices in New York City and The Hudson Valley. Contact her at info@cathy hobbs.com or visit her website at cathyhobbs.com.

Fall is a time of transition from warm days to cooler nights and an ideal time to begin to prepare for winter.

Elina Gritsak/Dreamstime/TNS