OCTOBER 28, 2026
FALL HOME IMPROVEMENT GUIDE
PAGE 1
Your local guide to home improvement ideas, products and services
PAGE 2
FALL HOME IMPROVEMENT GUIDE
OCTOBER 28, 2026
Cost-effective curb appeal boosters One shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. However, that often is hard to do, particularly when it comes to homes. Curb appeal bears significant influence regarding how a property is perceived. A property that is neat and aesthetically appealing probably will be preferable to one that looks like the homeowners did not maintain it. a home’s entryway. Most exterior paint costs between $30 and $40 per gallon, so this is undeniably a budget-friendly improvement. If money allows, replacing the door altogether will generate bang for your buck.
Improve or add landscaping elements
Landscaping should be designed to highlight the home’s best features. It should look symmetrical and feel manicured. If it’s not possible to plant new flowers or bushes, simply cleaning up debris and weeds, and trimming existing greenery can make it feel neater and more polished.
Clean up
Power-washing the siding, cement walkways and garage door can create instant impact. It’s amazing how much dirt and mildew can reduce the luster of a home. Cleaning off years of grime can be a fast and inexpensive refresh.
Reseal the driveway
Make sure the driveway is clean and tidy. If it has cracks or discoloration, filling in cracks and applying a new coat of sealer will make a big difference. Homeowners can hire someone to reseal the driveway or do the work on their own.
Add more lighting
Boosting curb appeal is a common focus of sellers before listing a property. But what can those who don’t have big budgets for major overhauls do to improve their curb appeal? Plenty of projects can offer maximum output with minimal investment.
Refresh the front door
Painting the front door can add brightness and improve the look of
Updating front porch lights and accent lights around the property will cast a more positive glow on a home, both literally and figuratively.
Add a seating area
If space by the front door allows, add a bench or some chairs to create a welcoming seating area. A potted plant or two nearby will help the area seem intentional. Improving curb appeal doesn’t have to cost a lot of money. A few easy touches can boost the look of any property.
OCTOBER 28, 2026
FALL HOME IMPROVEMENT GUIDE
PAGE 3
FEATURED HOMES FOR SALE PREFERRED PROPERTIES IOWA, INC. New Market
Luxury Home on 7 Acres
Clearfield
Farmhouse & Bldg. 1 Acre
Prescott
Improvement Opportunity!
Clearfield
Great Home, Well-Located!
Des Moines
Great Home Near the Zoo!
Corning
Sold!
New Price!
Villisca - Great Remodels!
Lenox
Great Home Near Park!
Nodaway
Scenic Bldg Site! - 10 Acres
Clearfield
Investment Opportunity!
Creston
Updated Home - 20 Acres, ML
Corning
Nice Home! - 3 bdrm, 1.5 bth
Contact us to learn about these fantastic homes and to schedule a private showing or to learn how we can help you sell your home!
FEATURED FARMS FOR SALE PREFERRED PROPERTIES OF IOWA, INC. Great New Price!
234 Acres, ML - Gentry Co., MO
77 Acres, ML - Montg. Co.
ding!
n Sale Pe 80 Acres, ML - Taylor Co.
295 Acres, ML - Adams Co.
104 Acres, ML - Lee Co.
193 Acres, ML - Grundy Co. MO
Contact us to learn about these fantastic farm opportunities and to schedule a private showing or to learn how we can get your farm front and center with all serious land buyers & achieve your goals!
641-333-2705
southwestiowaland.com
Preferred Properties of lowa, Inc. - 500 W. Temple St., Lenox, IA - Dan Zech, Broker
PAGE 4
FALL HOME IMPROVEMENT GUIDE
OCTOBER 28, 2026
Great reasons to insulate water pipes Homeowners want to do everything they can to protect their investment, and that includes both renovating a property to reflect recent trends and keeping up with routine maintenance to ensure a home does not fall into a state of disrepair.
Anticipating potential issues and planning for them is part of maintaining a home. Such anticipation is an acquired skill, but homeowners can use the experience of others to identify ways to prevent home-related issues before they arise. One issue homeowners may want to plan for is frozen pipes. The winter of 2025-2026 was notably cold. According to AccuWeather, the La Niña weather pattern was a driving force behind a particularly cold winter in various parts of the United States, including the northeast, midwest and mid-Atlantic regions. Temperatures in those regions were 10° to 15° F below normal, which AccuWeather notes laid the foundation for the most severe and frigid winter in nearly a decade. The extreme cold that characterized the winter of 2025-2026 forced some homeowners to confront issues they had not anticipated, including frozen pipes. Pipe insulation is an important part of home maintenance that some homeowners may not have been aware of as recently as early 2026, but the following are some notable reasons to add this to your home-related to-do list before winter returns. · Insulation prevents pipes from freezing. Frozen water inside pipes can start what’s essentially a chain reaction that can cause pipes to
expand. When pipes expand, the resulting pressure can cause them to burst. By insulating pipes, homeowners can prevent them from freezing. Insulating pipes that are already behind a wall is not a simple job, so it’s best left to a professional. But pipes that are along exterior walls should be insulated to ensure they do not freeze when temperatures drop and remain low. Pipes in attics, basements and crawl spaces may be exposed, and homeowners may be able to insulate these on their own, though novices might still want to leave this important job to a professional. · Insulating pipes can save you money. The United States Department of Energy reports that insulating hot water pipes is a notable way to save energy and money. According to the DOE, insulating water pipes reduces heat loss and can raise water temperature by as much as 2° to 4° F. That allows homeowners to lower the temperature setting on their water heaters, which saves money. Insulating pipes also reduces the time it takes for water to warm up when turning on a faucet or shower, which in turn leads to less water consumption and lower water bills. · Insulation can reduce the risk of mold growth. Winter is not the only time of year it pays to have insulated pipes. According to the insulation experts at Aeroflex®, pipes are subject to mold growth. That can happen when pipes sweat in humid climates (think of a water bottle left out in the hot sun). The resulting condensation from sweating pipes can drip and lead to the growth of mold in surrounding areas, including within the walls. Mold growth in a home has been linked to various negative health outcomes, including respiratory issues. But insulation prevents the condensation that can lead to mold growth. · Insulation is inexpensive. Homeowners who have grown accustomed to costly repairs and renovations should know that insulating pipes, particularly exposed pipes, is an inexpensive project. While it will cost more to insulate pipes within walls due to the extra work required to access such areas and address them once insulation has been installed, insulating those pipes, especially if they’re along exterior walls, can greatly reduce the risk for potentially costly damage down the road. Insulating pipes is a worthwhile undertaking for all homeowners, and can be particularly beneficial for those who live in areas with extreme weather in winter and summer.
OCTOBER 28, 2026
FALL HOME IMPROVEMENT GUIDE
PAGE 5
How to brighten interior spaces If spring and summer are seasons when homeowners focus their renovation energy on outdoor living spaces, that attention shifts back inside upon the arrival of fall. People tend to spend much more time indoors than outside come late fall and throughout the winter. create a lighter feel when residents and guests enter a room. Artwork with light colors also can help to brighten interior spaces. · Wash the windows. They are easily overlooked, but dirty windows can block natural light and greatly reduce the amount of light entering a home through the windows. Clean the interior and exterior of your windows prior to winter so any grime that has built up in recent months and years is not preventing light from entering your home. It can be a challenge to keep interior spaces bright over the winter. But there are many ways homeowners can illuminate interior spaces. The ambiance inside in fall and winter is notably different, as fewer hours of daylight can darken interior spaces. Finding ways to brighten home interiors can make spaces more inviting in late fall and throughout the winter. · Layer with sheer and blackout curtains. The simplest way to brighten interior spaces is to allow natural light to illuminate them, but that can be difficult in homes with blackout curtains. Blackout curtains are highly effective at keeping light out, but they won’t do much to brighten interior spaces in the winter. Layer blackout curtains with sheer curtains so you can still get some privacy but brighten interior spaces with natural light at the same time. · Add lighting wherever possible. The days when interior lighting was limited to floor lamps and overhead fixtures are long gone. Various types of lighting can now be used to brighten interior spaces throughout winter. Recessed lighting is a relatively inexpensive upgrade that can brighten any room in a home at any point in a day. Unlike a traditional overhead fixture where the light emanates from a single source, recessed lighting can be installed in various points in the ceiling so each corner of a room can be lit up. In addition to recessed lighting, under cabinet lighting in kitchens and on bookshelves can brighten spots that traditional fixtures typically fail to illuminate. Layering the lighting so light comes from various sources can create a brighter feel. · Use color to your advantage. Color is another tool that can be used to brighten interior spaces in the winter. If homeowners are reluctant to paint walls with new and brighter colors, then accents can lend rooms a lighter feel. Vibrantly colored throw pillows, blankets and fixtures can
Your Project. Our Passion. Local Pride. At Akin, we don’t just sell paint—we help you build the home you love. With Valspar’s industry-leading durability and our local expertise, your next painting project is in good hands. Building Local. Supporting Local. Growing Local.
www.akinbuildingcenters.com
PAGE 6
FALL HOME IMPROVEMENT GUIDE
OCTOBER 28, 2026
Tips to reduce utility costs around the house The cost of goods and services has risen considerably in recent years. Food and fuel costs garner considerable attention, but utilities also are stretching consumers’ budgets.
Data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration indicates that electricity costs have increased by approximately 37 percent since 2020. That’s making it hard for many people to pay their energy bills on time. In fact, the National Energy Assistance Directors Association reports that household energy arrearages, or the amount of money people owe on energy bills past the due date, rose by more than 30 percent between December 2023 and June 2025. That’s a troubling development in its own right, but perhaps even more so given NEADA projections indicating the cost to heat a home over the winter of 20262027 was expected to increase by nearly 9 percent compared to the year prior. With utility costs rising and a significant number of consumers falling behind on their energy bills, now is a great time to examine ways to reduce utility costs. · Reconsider your existing lighting. Millions of consumers have replaced incandescent light bulbs and/or compact fluorescent lamps with LED lights in their homes. According to the energy experts at Reliant®, a single traditional incandescent bulb uses around 60 watts, while an LED bulb requires between eight to 12 watts to produce the same amount of light. By switching to the more efficient LED bulbs, consumers can reduce their energy consumption and thus reduce their monthly utility bills. · Identify and address devices consuming energy when not in use. Some electronics may be characterized as “vampires” because they are consuming energy even when they are not being used. Kitchen
appliances, DVRs and even computers may be silently increasing your energy consumption even when they’re not being used. But consumers need not worry they need to unplug everything each day in order to cut their utility costs. Advanced power strips are smart surge protectors that can reduce vampire energy consumption because they automatically turn off ancillary devices like cable boxes when a primary electronic device like a television is turned off. · Adjust your water heater temperature. The United States Department of Energy reports that water heating accounts for roughly 18 percent of a home’s annual utility costs. That’s a sizable percentage, and many people may be overspending by setting the temperature on their water heaters too high. Energy experts note manufacturers typically set water heater temperatures at 140 F. However, reducing that temperature to 120 F can help consumers reduce their water heating energy consumption by more than 20 percent in some households. · Pay attention to HVAC filters. HVAC filters are easy to overlook, but dirty filters can result in considerably higher utility bills. When filters are not regularly replaced, furnaces and air conditioners are forced to work harder to move air throughout a home. That extra work results in greater energy consumption and, ultimately, higher energy bills. The HVAC experts at Carrier recommend changing air filters every 30 to 90 days. Utility costs have been outpacing inflation for years, but consumers can embrace various strategies to lower their monthly energy consumption.
OCTOBER 28, 2026
FALL HOME IMPROVEMENT GUIDE
PAGE 7
5 signs a washing machine needs repair (or replacement) Washing machines may be the unsung heroes of many households. People rely on them on a daily basis and take for granted that they will keep laundry clean. Only when a washing machine is not operating properly might a homeowner devote more attention to this important appliance. washer. Consumer Reports says an older washer with a lot of wear and tear may be better off replaced. However, if the machine is relatively young and expensive, a repair may be the better financial choice. Always check to see if the washing machine is still covered by the manufacturer’s warranty before calling a repair person. Most washer warranties last one year, though Speed Queen brand offers warranties of up to seven years on some models. Washing machines in disrepair can be challenging because laundry will quickly pile up if a breakdown occurs. Homeowners can learn to spot the signs a washing machine needs to be repaired or replaced.
HOME IMPROVEMENTStarts with the
Right Appliances
People should keep an eye out for signs that a washing machine is not operating optimally and may be in need of repair, even though, as Consumer Reports notes, broken washers are few and far between. According to their most recent member survey, only 14 percent of washers broke between the second and fifth years of ownership. The following are some common washing machine problems that can indicate a repair is on the horizon. · Leaking water: If you find puddles or slow drips beneath or around the machine, a repair may be needed. Torn door seals, loose hose connections a cracked internal drum, or a failing drain pump all can contribute to leaking water, says Mr. Appliance. · Control panel failures: A repair is necessary if the machine won’t turn on or if the control panel is unresponsive. · Water doesn’t drain: Clothes that are soaking wet at the end of a cycle or a drum that still has water in it is cause for concern. It could be something simple like a coin trapped somewhere, but it also might be something more troubling like a failing drain pump. · Vibrating or “walking”: Mr. Appliance says if the washing machine shakes violently or shifts position, it could mean the machine is unbalanced or the internal suspension rods and springs are broken or worn out. · Loud noises: Any time the washing machine is making a noise that is out of the ordinary is a cause for concern and warrants an inspection. Some homeowners may wonder if they should repair or replace a
You don’t have to go to the city for the best buy! Major Brands
Free Delivery
Great Service Department
Celebrating over
70 YEARS serving western Iowa! BONSALL TV & www.BonsallTV.com | 800-359-1766 APPLIANCE 712-643-5922 Brian Zehner • Dick Bonsall 618 Iowa Ave., Dunlap, IA
PAGE 8
FALL HOME IMPROVEMENT GUIDE
OCTOBER 28, 2026
4 things to know about kitchen renovations Kitchens are often described as the most popular room in a home, and that’s not mere conjecture. A survey from House Digest asked participants to identify the room they consider most important in their homes, and roughly 41 percent chose the kitchen. vestment, but kitchen renovations are among the more expensive undertakings. The overall cost of a project will depend on a host of variables unique to each home, including homeowners’ preferences, but HomeAdvisor estimated the average kitchen remodel in 2023 cost between $14,611 and $41,432. Homeowners considering an upscale kitchen remodel may receive six figure estimates for such projects.
2. Expect a good return on investment.
If sticker shock settles in when receiving an initial kitchen remodel estimate, perhaps it can help homeowners to know that such a project may provide a strong return on investment (ROI). According to Remodeling magazine’s “2024 Cost vs. Value Report,” a minor kitchen remodel provides a 96 percent ROI. A major kitchen remodel mid-range (49 percent) and a major kitchen remodel upscale (38 percent) did not provide as notable a ROI.
3. Expect the project to take some time.
Kitchens are large rooms with a lot of components, so renovating these spaces can take some time. Estimates vary depending on the size of the room, the scale of the remodel and the materials chosen, but Angi reports a kitchen remodel for most homes takes six weeks to four months. That’s a sizable window, and it reflects the likelihood that unforeseen issues like supply chain interruptions or the discovery of mold will arise at some point during the renovation. Though it’s impossible to determine precisely how long a project will take before it begins, homeowners renovating their kitchens may want to plan for the project to take two months if not longer. Residents tend to congregate in kitchens in the morning and then again in the evening when meals are prepared and, in homes without formal dining rooms, eaten. With so much time spent in the kitchen, it’s no wonder that the 2022 U.S. Houzz & Home Study: Renovation Trends found kitchens to be the most popular interior room to upgrade. With so many people interested in kitchen renovations, the following are four things homeowners should know about these popular improvement projects.
1. Expect to spend some money.
Most home improvement projects require a significant financial in-
4. Expect to use your kitchen during the renovation.
If the timeline of a renovation is scary, homeowners should know they will likely be able to use their kitchen even after the project begins. Though the room might not remain a popular gathering space once the work starts, Angi notes kitchens are typically out of commission for around six weeks during a renovation. That still requires some pre-planning in relation to meals, but it also suggests homeowners won’t be without a kitchen for months on end. Kitchen renovations are popular projects. Homeowners who know what to expect before such projects commence can make it through a renovation more smoothly.
OCTOBER 28, 2026
FALL HOME IMPROVEMENT GUIDE
PAGE 9
What to know about kitchen cabinet projects Kitchens have long been characterized as the busiest room in a home. Kitchens are where meals are prepared and cooked, but they also tend to be gathering spaces where families connect at the end of a day and where guests congregate during holiday celebrations and birthday parties. All that time in the kitchen makes these popular rooms to renovate. Homeowners who want to give their kitchens a new look and feel without doing a full renovation can consider kitchen cabinet projects. An understanding of kitchen cabinet projects can help homeowners decide if this undertaking is for them. · Cabinet renovations do not necessarily require replacement. Some cabinets may not need to be removed and replaced. The renovation experts at HGTV note that kitchen cabinet refacing can be a budget-friendly way to give a new look to cabinets that do not require replacement. Refacing can be as extensive as homeowners prefer, but such projects can create a whole new aesthetic in the kitchen depending on the extent of the project. · There are many different types of kitchen cabinets. Homeowners who have never been involved in a cabinet project should know they will have many different options to choose from. Face-frame cabinets are a traditional choice made with a frame around the door and any drawers that might be included as part of the cabinets. Some additional options include full overlay cabinets, frameless cabinets, recessed panel cabinets, and Shaker cabinets. Homeowners hesitant to choose their own cabinets can work with a contractor and/or interior designer to find the option that aligns best with their current kitchen. · Cabinet materials and finishes vary as well. Cabinets can be made from an array of materials, including wood, laminate, metal, and plastic. Cabinets also can be finished with paint, stain, glaze, and lacquer. Each finish has its own unique characteristics. For example, painted cabinets may need to be tended to with greater frequency than other options because paint can fade. However, painted cabinets remain popular because homeowners can paint them any color at any time. · Consider the countertops when adjusting kitchen cabinets. Kitchens tend to have color schemes, and that scheme is often reflected in the color of cabinets and countertops. When tweaking just the cabinets, homeowners should give ample consideration to the overall color scheme of their kitchens. Interior designers can be invaluable resources for homeowners who aren’t quite sure how new or refaced cabinets will fit into an overall color scheme. · Consider replacement if necessary. A kitchen cabinet replacement project will be more expensive than refacing the cabinets. But there
are instances when cabinets require replacement. Excessive wear and tear, insufficient storage, a dated appearance, and cabinets that appear to be sagging off the wall are some indicators that replacement is necessary. Updated cabinets can give a kitchen a whole new look, even if the cabinets are refaced instead of replaced.
KitchenConcepts
Cabinets & Countertops 311 N. Main St., Carroll, IA greatkitchenconcepts@gmail.com • kitchenconceptsofcarroll.com Like us on Facebook at Kitchen Concepts of Carroll
712.792.9250
PAGE 10
FALL HOME IMPROVEMENT GUIDE
OCTOBER 28, 2026
Exterior renovations that boast the best ROI Remodeling with a return on investment in mind can be a smart strategy for homeowners, whether
one is thinking about moving in the next few months or further down the road. Though this approach is an inexact science, in many instances, it’s savvy for homeowners to consider what buyers may want when planning home improvements.
Homeowners may be surprised to learn which renovations garner the best ROI at resale. The home loan and refinancing company RenoFi indicates that overall home improvement projects provide a 70 percent ROI on average. Many high-ROI projects add functional space and improvement. The following are some exterior renovations that help homeowners recoup the most money at resale, according to Remodeling magazine’s “2022 Cost vs. Value Report.” 1. Garage Door Replacement: 93.3 percent recouped of $4,041 cost 2. Manufactured Stone Veneer: 91.4 percent recouped of $11,066 cost 3. Siding replacement (Fiber Cement): 68.3 percent recouped of $22,093 cost 4. Window replacement (Vinyl): 67.5 percent recouped of $20,482 cost 5. Siding replacement (Vinyl): 67.2 percent recouped of $18,662 cost 6. Window replacement (Wood): 66.3 percent recouped of $24,388 cost 7. Deck addition (Wood): 64.8 percent recouped of $19,248 cost 8. Entry Door Replacement (Steel): 63.8 percent recouped of $2,206
cost The majority of renovations on Remodeling magazine’s list of the best investments are exterior renovations, making this area of a home a particular point of interest for homeowners. The only interior project that cracked the Top 10 ROI for projects was a minor midrange kitchen remodel. Exterior renovations perhaps add the most bang for your buck because they’re not only functional, but also because they add immediate curb appeal. Much in the way it has been said people eat with their eyes first - which is why chefs spend so much time on elaborate plating - buyers will judge a property by how it looks when they arrive, even before they’ve stepped inside a home. In essence, home buyers often judge a book by its cover. A worn exterior may indicate to potential buyers that the home was not maintained, however false that assumption may be. It’s important for homeowners to consider all factors before beginning a renovation. Certain projects offer a stronger return on investment than others, and that’s a significant consideration for homeowners thinking of selling their homes.
OCTOBER 28, 2026
FALL HOME IMPROVEMENT GUIDE
The many styles of front doors
PAGE 11
A grand entryway simply wouldn’t be complete without an impressive front door. A front door can dazzle guests and create a homeowner’s desired vibe before anyone even steps inside, which only underscores how important the choice of door style can be. When shopping around for a new front door for their homes, homeowners can consider the many popular styles as they seek to choose one that fits an existing scheme or use a new front door as a springboard to a redesigned home interior.
· Farmhouse:
Farmhouse doors are not all one and the same. Traditional farmhouse doors provide a rustic look that’s become popular in home decor over the last decade or so. Modern farmhouse doors are a little less rustic because they incorporate more contemporary elements into their design. Each option is ideal for homeowners who aspire to create a farmhouse vibe in their home interiors and exteriors.
· Modern:
Modern front doors tend to boast a bold look and many are made up of large glass panels. Some homeowners prefer modern front doors because the glass in them allows lots of natural light into their home’s interior. The added light in the entryway appeals to homeowners who want to brighten up these spaces, which tend to be dark in homes with more traditional doors.
· Traditional:
Traditional front doors may be the most recognizable to today’s homeowners. Often solid wood but sometimes enhanced with glass, traditional doors may feature subtle, yet ornate designs. Traditional front doors might feel out of place in modern or rustic homes, so they’re generally best suited to homes with owners that prefer more traditional decor inside their homes.
· Custom:
It’s important that homeowners recognize they need not pigeonhole themselves into a particular design style for their front doors. Custom front doors may be costly, but many door manufacturers or contractors customize front doors. Custom doors may suit homeowners’ with unique ideas about decor, and some can even mimic other popular styles while still featuring subtle differences. For example, homeowners can request an arched double door that, while unique, features many
of the same qualities that characterize traditional doors, including ornate designs. A front door can greatly influence the first impression people get of a home. That makes it worth homeowners’ time and effort to explore the many different front door styles now available.
Fall
Home Improvement
OUTDOOR FAVORITES • Mail Boxes • Planters • Bird Baths • Benches • More!
Gift Certificates Available
— Over 100 Years Striving for Excellence — Hwy. 30 West Denison, IA 51442 712-263-2442 800-832-7383 Fax 712-263-5090 e-mail: sales@petersenmfg.com • http://www.petersenmfg.com
PAGE 12
FALL HOME IMPROVEMENT GUIDE
OCTOBER 28, 2026
The benefits of a professional gutter cleaning Gutters serve an important role on a building, catching rainwater from the roof and channelling it away from the structure. Without properly functioning gutters and downspouts, basements can flood, foundations may become cracked and soil can erode. Gutters also help maintain roof and
siding longevity, ensuring that rainwater will not pool under shingles or siding. Wet leaves also create habitats for pests to live, notably for mosquitoes, termites, rodents, and birds.
Homeowners can clean their own gutters, but the job is often best left to professionals. Here are some of the reasons to leave gutter cleaning to an expert. · Pros have the equipment. As with any project, having the right equipment means it will be done correctly. Handyman services and professional gutter cleaners already have the gear to reach gutters and tackle the mess, unlike some homeowners who will have to purchase tools. · Pros are trained in safety. Gutter cleaning professionals are trained in proper safety procedures and have the right equipment to safely scale homes. Gutter cleaning involves climbing ladders, walking on roofs, and handling slippery debris. It also may require working close to electrical and cable wires entering the home. Homeowners who don’t know how to navigate these conditions safely risk falls or other injuries. · Pros can spot other damage. Professionals may spot damage to a home that homeowners do not see. This may include cracked seams, loose fasteners, sagging sections, and even roof damage. This allows
homeowners to get a jump on the problem early on before it progresses to something more serious. · Pros save homeowners time. One of the obvious perks to letting a professional clean the gutters is that it saves homeowners time. The expert can get the job done in less time and more efficiently than a novice weekend warrior. Mr. Handyman, a home improvement service, says the general recommendation is to get the gutters cleaned at least twice a year: once in the spring after trees have dropped their seeds, and again in the fall after all leaves have fallen. People with heavier amounts of natural debris may need more frequent cleanings. A professional gutter service will typically include inspection of the entire gutter system; removal of all debris from gutters and downspouts; flushing of gutters and downspouts to ensure water flows correctly; assessment of water being directed away; and identification of areas in need of repair. Gutter cleaning is an important step that safeguards a home by keeping gutters and downspouts in working order.
OCTOBER 28, 2026
FALL HOME IMPROVEMENT GUIDE
PAGE 13
The benefits of a fall roof replacement A roof is a vital component of a home that protects the structure from the elements and ensures that sun, rain, wind, and snow do not compromise the integrity of interior spaces. Peak Performance Roofing says the average asphalt shingle roof found on many homes lasts between 15 and 30 years. Alternative roofing materials, such as metal or clay tiles, can last much longer.
Homeowners who stay in a home for many years will likely need to replace a roof at some point. Choosing when to replace the roof may come down to selecting the right season. Experts typically consider fall the prime time to upgrade a roof for a variety of reasons.
· Moderate temperatures:
Fall weather tends to be comfortable in many regions of the country. Magnolia Home Remodeling Group says fall temperatures are better suited for roofing and allow materials to work the best. When temperatures are too hot, shingles can become soft and prone to scuffing, while cold temperatures can make materials brittle and difficult to seal.
· Comfort for workers:
The same moderate conditions can make it easier for roofing contractors to get the work done. It can be extremely hot on a roof during summer, necessitating frequent breaks for workers. Winter weather conditions are not ideal for working on a roof, with snow and ice making things slippery. Fall weather can help workers feel more comfortable.
· Avoid the rush:
Earl W. Johnston Roofing, LLC says spring and early summer are peak seasons for roofing contractors due to post-winter repairs. Homeowners may experience shorter wait times, better pricing and flexible scheduling if they opt for a fall roof replacement.
· Prepare for winter:
Getting a roof in the fall means having a new and functional barrier against winter storms that can be hard on old roofs. It also means the roof will be ready for rainy, spring weather. Fall is an ideal time to replace a roof for many reasons. Homeowners can use the summer to vet various roofing contractors and come up with a package that fits their schedules and budgets.
PAGE 14
FALL HOME IMPROVEMENT GUIDE
OCTOBER 28, 2026
A guide to fall lawn care for cool-season grasses Spring is the season most often associated with lawn care, and for good reason. Grass starts growing in spring, and the season is a great time to fertilize many grasses in the hopes lawns can look their best and endure the hotter, dryer weather of summer.
Spring might mark the time when many homeowners begin tending to their lawns each year, but it’s important to recognize the significance of fall lawn care as well. Grasses vary, and homeowners are urged to identify which type of grass is in their lawn so they can ensure it gets the care it needs before winter’s first frost. Cool-season grasses like perennial ryegrass and Kentucky bluegrass are common in various regions, and the following strategies can help homeowners with these types of grasses tend to their lawns this fall. · Stick to your recommended fertilization schedule. Homeowners who have been fertilizing since spring are urged to continue doing so in fall at the recommended interval. It’s easy to forget to fertilize in fall thanks to cooler temperatures that don’t call lawn care to mind and busier schedules after school starts again and summer vacation season ends. But many fertilizer manufacturers advise users of their products to fertilize several times over the course of the year, including in fall. Stick to the intervals recommended on the packaging of the fertilizer you’ve been using, making sure not to forget to fertilize this fall. · Conduct a soil test. A soil test can determine if the soil is lacking any nutritive elements it needs to come back strong in spring. Certain amendments can restore pH balance if necessary and foster stronger growth when lawns come back in spring. · Aerate, if necessary. Soil can become compacted over time, and that can cause a range of problems for a lawn. Compacted soil can make it harder for water to reach the roots of grass, which weakens
grass and makes it more vulnerable to damage during adverse weather events like drought. Compacted soil also makes it harder for nutrients in fertilizer to get into the soil. Aerating is best left to professionals, particularly in larger lawns, as the job can foster strong root development when done properly. · Remove thatch where it’s excessive. Thin layers of thatch can benefit lawns by delivering nutrients from glass clippings and leaves to a lawn. However, when thatch is excessive, it can block air, water and even fertilizer from reaching the soil. Thatch often can be removed with a rake, but lawns with especially thick layers of thatch may need to be scarified. Homeowners can take a DIY approach to scarifying or hire a landscaping professional to dethatch the lawn and remove the thatch from their properties. · Continue to water the lawn. A cool-season grass will continue to require water into the fall. Though the lawn won’t need to be watered as frequently in fall as in summer, various lawn care professionals note cool-season grasses still need roughly an inch of water each week in fall. · Remove leaves as they fall. Fallen leaves can affect a lawn in much the same way as excessive amounts of thatch, blocking water and nutrients from reaching the soil. So it’s best to remove fallen leaves, especially when they begin to fall in large quantities. Fall is an opportune time to tend to a lawn to increase the chances grass grows back strong in spring.
OCTOBER 28, 2026
FALL HOME IMPROVEMENT GUIDE
PAGE 15
Signs suggesting doors and windows need air sealing When pondering projects around a house, it’s easy to overlook small tasks and direct your
focus toward more significant undertakings. Small projects might not generate the reactions that larger projects do, but even the simplest tasks can go a long way toward making a home more comfortable.
Sealing leaks around windows and doors is unlikely to make any homeowner’s list of dream projects. However, as the moderate temperatures of fall give way to harsh winter weather, homeowners who seal leaks around their doors and windows may be surprised by how effective this simple project can be at reducing energy costs and making a home more comfortable. In fact, the U.S. Department of Energy notes that sealing inefficient windows and doors can reduce annual utility bills by 7 to 15 percent. That’s a potentially significant cost savings, particularly in an era marked by rising utility costs. Before homeowners seal their windows and doors, they can first look for signs that these areas are allowing outdoor air in. The United States Environmental Protection Agency notes there are some obvious signs that a home has leaks around the windows and doors. Those signs include:
· Drafts:
If you place your hand around closed windows or doors but can still feel drafts, then there are leaks that will need to be sealed.
· Gaps:
Gaps around windows and doors that are letting outdoor air in typically are noticeable to the naked eye. You might see light coming in through small cracks on a sunny day. These gaps may only be in one or two places, but that’s enough to adversely affect energy bills.
· Unwelcome guests:
Pests or insects may be another indicator that there are gaps around windows or doors. If you consistently see insects near a particular entryway or window, or signs of pests near doorways, that’s likely because there’s a gap or hole in these areas that’s enabling them to access the interior of your home.
· Odors:
It’s not only your sense of vision that might detect leaks, but also your sense of smell. If you notice exterior odors inside your home even though doors and windows are closed, then leaks around these areas may be the culprit.
· Peeling paint or wallpaper:
Peeling paint or wallpaper is another potential indicator of a leak around a door or window. This can occur when water is entering the home through the leak. Over time, wet paint or wallpaper dries and can begin to peel. This is a potentially significant issue because it can lead to mold infestation and even structural damage to a home. The EPA characterizes sealing behind windows and doors as a moderate to difficult project. If leaks are detected, homeowners can benefit from hiring a professional to do the job quickly and correctly. As winter approaches, investigating for leaks and addressing any that are found can save money and ensure a home stays comfortable when the temperatures drop.
PAGE 16
FALL HOME IMPROVEMENT GUIDE
OCTOBER 28, 2026
Don’t Let Storm Damage Hang Over Your Head
Tree Trimming • Removal Stump Grinding Insured • Residential Commercial • Free Estimates 24 Hour Emergency Service Available www.thegreentreeco.com
712-623-8118
Serving all of Southwest Iowa