As the air gets crisper and the leaves start to turn, fall is the perfect time to tackle those home improvement projects you’ve been putting off all summer. Whether you’re preparing your home for winter or simply freshening up your space, fall offers an ideal window to get things done. And with Rentby, you can rent the tools you need from neighbors without having to buy expensive equipment. Here are some top home improvement projects to focus on this fall—and the tools that will help you achieve them.
1. Clean and Repair Gutters
Before the winter storms arrive, it’s crucial to clean out your gutters and repair any damage. Fallen leaves and debris can clog gutters, leading to water damage or ice dams during the colder months.
- Tools You’ll Need:
- Ladder: A sturdy, extendable ladder to reach your gutters.
- Leaf Blower or Wet/Dry Vacuum: For removing leaves and debris quickly.
- Gutter Cleaning Attachment: This makes it easy to clean gutters from the ground.
If you don’t own these tools, renting a ladder or a powerful leaf blower from Rentby is a great option.
2. Power Wash the Exterior
After a season of sun, pollen, and dust, the exterior of your home can look a little worse for wear. Power washing the siding, driveway, and deck can help restore your home’s curb appeal before winter arrives.
- Tools You’ll Need:
- Pressure Washer: The quickest and most effective way to clean exterior surfaces. Rent one with enough power to tackle tough dirt but gentle enough not to damage siding.
A pressure washer is a tool most people only need a few times a year, making it the perfect item to rent for a weekend project.
3. Deck and Fence Maintenance
Fall is the perfect time to refinish your deck or fence, ensuring they are ready to withstand winter weather. Sanding and resealing your deck or fence will protect the wood from moisture and prevent warping or rot.
- Tools You’ll Need:
- Power Sander: This will save you hours of hand sanding and ensure a smooth surface for refinishing.
- Paint Sprayer: For evenly applying stains or sealants on large surfaces like decks or fences.
Renting these tools for a couple of days can be much more affordable than purchasing, especially if you only need them for this annual task.
4. Repair or Replace Windows
Fall is also a good time to address any drafty windows or broken seals before winter hits. Replacing old or damaged windows can significantly improve your home’s energy efficiency, keeping the cold out and the warmth in.
- Tools You’ll Need:
- Caulking Gun: For sealing around windows and doors to prevent drafts.
- Oscillating Multi-Tool: Ideal for cutting and removing old window frames or trim.
- Power Drill: To install new window frames securely.
These specialized tools can be expensive to buy, but they are widely available for rent on Rentby, making window repairs more affordable.
5. Update Landscaping and Garden Beds
Though the growing season is winding down, fall is the ideal time to clean up your garden, trim back bushes, and prepare your yard for the winter. This is also a good time to plant bulbs for spring.
- Tools You’ll Need:
- Hedge Trimmer: For trimming back bushes and overgrown trees.
- Tiller or Garden Cultivator: To break up soil for planting or improve the health of your lawn.
- Leaf Blower: To quickly clean up leaves and debris in your yard.
Renting a hedge trimmer or garden tiller will allow you to complete these tasks efficiently without the cost of buying.
6. Install or Replace Outdoor Lighting
As the days get shorter, adding outdoor lighting can improve the safety and appearance of your home. Whether you’re installing pathway lights, security lights, or accent lighting, this is a great project to tackle in the fall.
- Tools You’ll Need:
- Power Drill: To install lighting fixtures.
- Wire Strippers: For safely wiring outdoor lights.
- Shovel or Posthole Digger: If you’re installing post-mounted lights.
These tools are often rented for short-term projects and can be found easily through Rentby.
7. Insulate the Attic or Crawl Space
One of the best ways to prepare your home for winter is to improve insulation in your attic or crawl space. This will help regulate indoor temperatures and reduce heating costs.
- Tools You’ll Need:
- Blower Insulation Machine: To install blown-in insulation quickly and efficiently.
- Utility Knife: For cutting insulation batts to fit tight spaces.
- Staple Gun: For securing insulation to walls or between rafters.
Insulation blowers are specialized equipment that most homeowners don’t need to own, making them ideal candidates for renting.
8. Build or Repair a Firewood Storage Shed
If you plan on cozying up next to a wood fire this winter, now’s the time to build or repair a firewood storage shed. This will keep your wood dry and protected from the elements, ensuring it burns efficiently all winter long.
- Tools You’ll Need:
- Circular Saw: For cutting lumber to build the shed.
- Nail Gun: To speed up the process of framing the structure.
- Level: To ensure the structure is sturdy and well-balanced.
Circular saws and nail guns are expensive to buy but can be easily rented for a weekend DIY project.
Final Thoughts
Fall is the perfect season to tackle home improvement projects that will keep your home in great shape all year long. Whether you’re repairing your deck, updating your landscaping, or insulating your home, the right tools are essential. With Rentby, you can easily rent power tools like pressure washers, sanders, and saws from neighbors, saving money while getting the job done efficiently.
Start planning your fall projects today, and check out Rentby for all the tools you need to make your home shine this season!
