You know fall is coming when you start to feel that slight chill in the air. You suddenly realize you need blankets at night and a sweater in the morning. Whether we like it or not, summer is ending. It’s already September and Labor Day weekend is past.

End of summer for many homeowners means the end of their big summer home improvement plans but consider these three things before you stop thinking about your home entirely:

Plan, Plan, Plan

It’s never too early to start thinking about your home improvement plans for next summer or over the coming year. Keep an inspiration binder where you tear out pictures you like and jot down ideas that inspire you. You might also want to keep a file or magazine holder full of the catalogues and magazines you pick up, so when it’s time for a project you have a one stop visual resource.

An inspiration binder is a great way not only to help you plan, but contractors can use it as a guide for helping you achieve your dream project. Like they say, a picture is worth a thousand words, and an inspiration binder can help insure you’re vision and your contractor’s vision match.

Take Advantage of Contractor’s Lighter Schedules

After a busy spring and summer, contractors usually have a smaller number of projects. With a more open schedule you’ll have more control over your project timeline and will likely have more one on one time working directly with your contractor. You might want to consider a small interior remodel before Thanksgiving, or perhaps even before Christmas for you and your family to enjoy for the holidays.

A Homeowner’s Work is Never Done – Fall Home Maintenance

You may not be embarking on any projects for the fall and winter, but that doesn’t mean you’ve got nothing home related to do. Home maintenance should be a high priority for both fall and winter. Check out our Fall Maintenance Guide for a more information about how to prepare and protect your home. Hiring a handyman for your home maintenance could be a good option for you if you prefer to outsource home related projects.

Whether or not you’ll start a home improvement project this Fall, or if you’ll just plan for the warmer weather, here are some more ideas to check out:

Remodeling Triumphs and War Stories
You’re So Vain: Choosing a Bathroom Vanity
The Right Tools Make All the Difference

It’s starting to get colder, and there might be less sunshine, but it’s still a great time for remodeling projects. Here are my top picks for Fall Home Improvement and Remodeling Projects.

1. Window Replacement
Do you know how old your windows are? Old windows can be a big energy waster in your home. In the fall and winter, when keeping warm air in is important, having old windows that don’t do their job can cause your home to be less than efficient, and definitely not as warm. So why not update your windows before the cold really comes in this winter and keep your house cozy all year long.

2. Kitchen Remodel
With all the cooking and baking that goes on during the holidays, why not spend some time sprucing your kitchen space up. No matter your budget, there are options for making your kitchen feel warmer and more inviting. Try installing new countertops, refacing your cabinets, or adding a kitchen island to create more workspace.

3. Roof Replacement
Fall maintenance is an important part of the season. Having your roof inspected should be one of your top maintenance priorities. The last thing you want going into the colder months is a roof that’s not in perfect shape. If your roof is older, you may find that it lets cold air, or worse, the other elements, leak into your home. If this is the case, it might be time to start a roof replacement before you encounter bigger roofing problems in the winter.

4. Window Seat Addition
One of my favorite ways of enjoying the sun in winter, is to enjoy it from the indoors. Adding a window seat in front of a window that gets lots of sunshine is a great way to still get some sun while staying warm. Any carpenter should be able to create an area for you however you imagine it. Perhaps a bench with built in storage would fit perfectly in your living room.

5. Fireplace Remodel
If you have a fireplace, you’ll likely start using it this winter. Using your fireplace creates warmth, and encourages the family to gather around it. To get your fireplace spruced up for winter, think about giving it a little love this fall. Add a new coat of paint, hire a carpenter to create a custom mantle, or maybe install some interesting tile work around your fireplace. Whatever you choose, adding new life to your fireplace will make it a space to enjoy all winter.

Does anyone else have any winter projects lined up?