As the leaves change and the weather cools, fall is the perfect time to think about your outdoor spaces. Sure, you're going to have to do a bit more lawn care to tackle in the spring, but if you start now, you'll be a step ahead. According to Thumbtack’s recent Fall Curb Appeal Report, homeowners can take specific steps this season to help their spaces and improve the overall curb appeal of their property.
Why Fall Matters for Curb Appeal
“Prepping your lawn for fall is just the beginning—it’s also the perfect time to get a head start on winterization by tackling outdoor projects that safeguard your home from the harsh winter months," shared Aldo Ceja, Thumbtack’s Home Expert. "Homeowners who complete simple—yet essential—tasks can save on costly repairs and reduce energy bills down the line.”
Have you been telling yourself that you'll make more time for your yard next year? Well, fall is when you can take steps that'll make a real difference. Whether you're looking to sell your home or simply want to enjoy a lush landscape, focus on the chores that matter and you'll be off to the right start come spring.
Top Projects to Tackle This Fall
The Fall Curb Appeal Report highlights several chores that'll improve your grass and landscape.
1. Aerate and Overseed Your Lawn
Aerating and overseeding enhance grass coverage and thickness. Aeration helps nutrients and water penetrate the soil more effectively, while the process of overseeding introduces new grass seed, promoting a healthier lawn.
- How to Aerate: Use a core aerator, which removes small plugs of soil. This reduces soil compaction and allows air, water, and nutrients to reach the roots.
- When to Overseed: After aerating, spread grass seed evenly over the lawn. Aim for a mixture that suits your climate and lawn conditions.
2. Prune Shrubs and Trees
Keeping your shrubs, trees, and perennials well-trimmed is essential for their health and aesthetics.
- Trim Trees and Shrubs: Regular trimming promotes better growth and prevents potential hazards. Pay special attention to branches that may pose risks near rooftops or power lines.
- Cut Back Perennials: Once perennials have dried, cut them back to encourage healthy growth next spring.
3. Fertilize and Weed
A healthy lawn not only looks better but also fights off weeds effectively. Weeds can be a major stressor for homeowners, but a healthy, thick lawn can suppress them.
- Weed Control: Aim to tackle weeds every 2-6 months, using a ‘weed and feed’ fertilizer to nourish your lawn while eliminating unwanted weed seeds and plants.
- Fall Fertilization: This is the perfect time to give your lawn a nutrient boost that will carry it through winter.
4. Winterize Your Irrigation System
Before cold temperatures arrive, winterize your sprinkler system to avoid burst pipes and other costly damages.
- Steps to Winterize: Shut off the system, drain any remaining water, and ensure pipes are insulated to prevent freezing.
- Adjust Timers: If your system is on a timer, switch it off or set it to standby mode.
5. Leaf Cleanup and Gutter Maintenance
Fall leaves can trap moisture in your lawn, leading to unhealthy grass and even mold. Goodbye, lush lawn.
- Leaf Removal: Regularly rake up leaves to keep your lawn healthy and moisture levels in check.
- Gutter and Roof Cleaning: Clean your gutters at least twice a year to prevent clogs that could damage your roof and drainage system. Remove leaves that build up in areas of your roof, too; it can help prevent moisture damage.
Budgeting for Your Fall Projects
When planning your fall curb appeal projects, Thumbtack's report says it’s wise to set aside around $3,500 for necessary maintenance tasks. Some chores, like leaf cleanup and basic fertilizing, can be tackled on your own, but others—like gutter cleaning and tree trimming—are best left to professionals. Want to save some money? Consider bundling these services to get them done at the same time, and make sure they're done right.
Enhance Your Home's Weatherization
While focusing on your lawn, don't forget about weatherizing your home. "You can effectively block out moisture and trap in warmth by sealing your deck and other wooden structures, filling in any gaps with caulk around your home and foundation, and insulating your doors and windows," notes Ceja. "It’s important to do these tasks now to set yourself up for success and avoid emergencies like water damage, which can be a headache during the winter months."
Fall is the perfect time to:
- Seal your deck
- Caulk gaps around windows and doors
- Insulate areas prone to drafts
Top U.S. Cities for Curb Appeal
Interestingly, Thumbtack's report also highlighted the cities that prioritized curb appeal projects this year. Southern cities dominated the list, with Texas, North Carolina, and Florida making strong showings. Here are the top 10 cities with the best curb appeal:
- Atlanta, GA
- Austin, TX
- Charlotte, NC
- Dallas, TX
- Washington, DC
- Denver, CO
- Tampa, FL
- Orlando, FL
- Seattle, WA
- Raleigh, NC
If you’re looking for inspiration or guidance on improving your outdoor spaces, the Thumbtack app can provide personalized tips and help you connect with professionals in your area. Grab your gardening tools, roll up your sleeves, and get started on those curb appeal projects today!
