DIY home guide: Autumn
How to protect the value of your property, cut energy costs, avoid costly repairs, and spiff up your surroundings this autumn.
Seal yourself in
$5 for a tube of sealant, enough for 50 feet; $5 for 90 feet of rope caulk
To keep the cold air and moisture out, make sure your windows and doors are tightly sealed. Head outside and inspect where your window trim meets the siding, says Tim Carter, founder of AsktheBuilder.com.
If you spot gaps or cracks, replace the sealant -- it often needs about three dry days to set, so wait for a rain-free forecast. In drafty old houses, you may also want to add temporary rope caulk inside the windows. It's unsightly, but it'll help you keep warm.
NEXT: Be less green
Last updated January 28 2011: 5:13 PM ET
