What You Should Consider When Getting Your Farm or Ranch Ready for Fall

Fall is the time of the year when many people start getting ready for winter. However, it's also a time of year when farmers and ranchers are getting prepared for the cold winter months. Here are some things that you should consider doing on your farm or ranch before fall ends.

Check The Roof

You should first check the roof to make sure it's not leaking or missing any tiles. If there is a problem with your roof, you'll want to fix it before the snow starts falling, as it will be more difficult to repair once snow covers everything.

Clean Gutters

Cleaning the gutters and making sure downspouts are working are two of the most important things you should do when getting your farm or ranch ready for fall.

It is helpful to have a leaf screen installed on your gutters so that leaves don't get stuck in them. The screen prevents the leaves from piling up on the roof, which can lead to leaks.

If you notice that your downspouts are not working correctly or if they are not draining water outside your house, now is the time to fix them.

Damaged Trees

To properly prepare for the upcoming fall season, make sure to clear out any damaged trees that could pose a potential danger for the future. Fall is the perfect time to take care of this task!

Clear out any debris left by fallen trees or branches, especially ones near power lines or fences that could pose a hazard to humans or animals later on in the year if left unattended.

Storm Doors

Storm doors are frequently used and abused. They are a great way to save energy and keep out the cold, but they require maintenance. Storm doors suffer from constant exposure to dirt, leaves, rain, and other debris that can become stuck in the hinges or break off the door's seal.

Regardless of quality, no hinge will last forever, so it's essential to inspect them regularly for any damage or wear-and-tear caused by use over time. For your storm door to be properly aligned, each hinge should be secured.

If you live in an area that gets heavy snowfall or extreme winds, then you might need to take some extra precautions on your door-closing mechanism before this winter hits. The door-closing tool might become damaged in high winds, which might mean that it needs to be replaced. Switching out a door-closing mechanism can be costly and complicated, so make sure you inspect yours now before the first big snowstorm hits!

Other Steps in Fall Prep

  • Prepare your equipment for winter storage by changing the oil and filters.
  • Drain gas on items that need to be put away until the spring.
  • Turn off outside water spigots and disconnect garden hoses.
  • Make sure all of your outbuildings or other property are secure and ready for winter weather.
  • Prepare your animals for winter. Make sure they have enough hay and feed stored up so they can ride out any storm.

 

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