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Preparing Your Property for the Fall Season
As summer winds down in Alaska, homeowners know that fall is more than just a season of colorful leaves—it’s the time to prepare for the long, cold winter ahead. Taking a few simple steps now can save you time, money, and stress when the temperatures drop. Here are some practical tips to get your Alaska property fall-ready:
1. Inspect and Service Your Heating System: Before the chill sets in, schedule a furnace or boiler inspection. Clean filters, check for leaks, and make sure everything is operating efficiently. If you have a wood stove or fireplace, now is the time to stock up on firewood and have your chimney cleaned.
2. Seal Drafts and Check Insulation: Cold drafts can quickly drive up heating costs. Walk through your home and check for gaps around windows, doors, and vents. Apply weatherstripping or caulking where needed, and add insulation to attics or crawl spaces if they feel under-protected.
3. Winterize Outdoor Plumbing: Frozen pipes are a common issue in Alaska’s harsh winters. Drain and disconnect garden hoses, shut off outdoor water lines, and insulate any exposed plumbing. If you have a septic system, consider scheduling a pumping before the ground freezes.
4. Protect Your Roof and Gutters: Heavy snow and ice can take a toll on your roof. Clean out gutters to prevent ice dams, and check shingles or metal panels for any damage that needs repair. Installing snow guards or roof heating cables can also help protect your home.
5. Prep Your Yard and Driveway: Rake leaves, trim back trees and shrubs, and clear out garden beds before the snow arrives. If you use gravel or asphalt driveways, stockpile sand or ice melt for traction. Now is also a good time to service your snow blower and check your supply of shovels.
6. Check Emergency Supplies: Alaska winters can bring power outages and travel delays. Restock essentials like flashlights, batteries, propane, blankets, and a first-aid kit. Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle, too, in case you’re caught in unexpected weather.
7. Prepare Outbuildings and Recreational Gear: Barns, sheds, and cabins should be winterized just like your home. Secure doors and windows, protect tools and machinery from the cold, and drain fuel from recreational vehicles like ATVs and boats before storing them for the season.
By taking these steps now, you’ll be ready to enjoy a cozy, stress-free fall and winter in the Last Frontier. Preparing your Alaska property is all about protecting your investment, increasing comfort, and giving yourself peace of mind when the snow flies.
To buy or sell real estate this coming season, contact Alaskan Properties today at (907) 694-3434.