The first day of Fall came and went without much notice and we find ourselves saying things like “Where did the Summer go?” The days get cooler and you can feel, and even smell, the crispness to the air. Then you start to notice how the sun is setting earlier and you may have to change your schedule a little especially if you like to take an evening walk or something else outside.
Fall is also known as Autumn. The first day of Autumn is the day of the Autumnal Equinox. This is when the sun is exactly above the equator making the day and
night of equal length. The daylight hours have been growing shorter since the first day of Summer, which is the Summer Solstice. After the Autumnal Equinox there is more darkness time than daylight.
These changes in daylight length are responsible for the changes in leaf color as the chlorophyll begins to break down. As this happens the green color disappears and the yellows, oranges, and reds appear. People mistakenly think it’s the weather which starts the color change process. However, the weather can affect how vibrant the colors are if it is hotter or colder than normal ranges for this time of year.
Some people really like the change of season especially when it comes to Fall. They love everything about it – the colorful leaves, the cooler air, less humidity, apple picking, and even the bright orange pumpkins starting to show up as decorations around homes and businesses.
Along with the beauty and the festive traditions of Fall, there are some things you should be checking around your home and property before the winter arrives. One of the most obvious is the leaves that fall. You need to clear them away from gutters and drains.
This helps prevent water from getting into the house. Check all leaders from the gutters too since any clogs or leaks can cause water to get into the house through the foundation. While checking the gutters give the roof a look for any worn, missing, or loose shingles which can cause water to come into the attic and maybe even drain down walls to other levels of the home.
It is important to check your home for areas which may cause water to get in. Remember that old saying, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure? If you find that water did get in, have it looked at by a professional since mold can grow within 24 - 48 hours. If you suspect mold, have a licensed mold inspector in for a look and peace of mind.
Are you a person who loves the season change to Fall or someone who dreads trading your flip flops for closed up shoes and boots? Either way, maybe you can enjoy a hot cup of cider after raking the leaves into a pile and watching the kids and family dog having a great time jumping in – and just maybe you’ll jump in too.
"It's the first day of autumn! A time of hot chocolatey mornings, and toasty marshmallow evenings, and, best of all, leaping into leaves!" - Winnie the Pooh, Pooh's Grand Adventure
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