Maintaining a home in the Smoky Mountains during autumn requires specific care due to the region’s dense heavy foliage, steep terrain, humid climate, and rapidly dropping mountain temperatures. Taking care of these tasks during the relatively temperate autumn days ensures your mountain property is protected before the harsh winter conditions set in.
Stock up on winter supplies. If you live in a region with cold, snowy winters, fall is the time to prepare.
- Check the condition of snow shovels and ice scrapers; replace as needed.
- Pick up a bag of pet- and plant-safe ice melt, if needed.
- Restock emergency kits for car and home.
- If you use a snow blower, have it serviced and purchase fuel.
Shut off exterior faucets and store hoses. Protect your pipes from freezing temperatures by shutting off water to exterior faucets before the weather dips below freezing. Drain hoses and store them indoors. Drain and winterize irrigation system, if using.
The Smoky Mountains are famous for their stunning fall colors, but those dazzling leaves will inevitably end up on your home. Leaf and Gutter management along with clearing areas around HVAC units are important.
As the weather cools down, local wildlife—ranging from mice and squirrels to raccoons and bears—will look for warm places to hibernate. Make sure to take a good look around the home and plan ahead. Mountain nights get cold fast, making a reliable heat source essential.
All of these ideas and items will keep your home not only looking great but also functioning at it’s best.