Joe, welcome to the walls business podcast, where we dive deep into sustainable landscaping practices and innovative construction technologies as a proud, locally owned and family operated business. We've been woven into the fabric of the Portland, Oregon metro area since 1985 our journey is a testament to the enduring values of community craftsmanship and the unique charm that defines our city. Each episode will explore the stories, challenges and successes that have shaped us and the local landscape. Let's dig in getting your yard ready for fall in the Portland metro essential
tips for homeowners. As summer winds down in the Portland metro area, it's time for homeowners to start preparing their yards for the upcoming fall and winter months. The transition from sunny days to cooler, wetter weather presents unique challenges to maintaining a healthy and attractive yard. By taking a few proactive steps, you can ensure your outdoor space is ready to handle whatever the Pacific Northwest climate throws your way. Here are some essential tips to help you prepare your yard for fall and the winter months ahead. One power washing refresh your outdoor surfaces. Fall is
the perfect time to power wash your outdoor surfaces, including decks, patios, sidewalks and driveways. The summer months often leave behind dirt, pollen and mold that can become slippery and dangerous when combined with the wet conditions Portland is known for in the fall and winter. Power washing not only improves the appearance of your home, but also helps to prevent accidents caused by slippery surfaces. Make sure to use an appropriate cleaner for each type of surface and always follow the manufacturer's instructions for the power washer. If you don't own a power washer, many
local rental companies in the Portland area offer affordable day rates, or you can hire a professional to ensure the job is done safely and effectively. Two pruning keep your trees and shrubs healthy. Pruning is a crucial step in preparing your yard for the fall. With Portland's mix of heavy rain and occasional windstorms, unpruned trees and shrubs can pose a safety hazard. Dead or weakened branches are more likely to break and cause damage to your home vehicles or power lines start by removing any dead, diseased or damaged branches to promote healthier growth and reduce the
risk of breakage during winter storms, thinning dense canopies can also help reduce the chance of storm damage by allowing wind to pass through more easily. For larger trees, consider hiring a professional arborist to ensure the job is done correctly and safely. Three storm water drainage prevent flooding and erosion. Portland homeowners know all too well the impact of heavy rains on their yards proper storm water drainage is critical to preventing flooding and soil erosion. Start by cleaning your gutters and down spouts of leaves and debris to ensure water flows freely away from
your home, consider installing gutter guards to reduce the frequency of cleaning. Next inspect your yard for areas where water tends to pool or flow improperly. Adding mulch to garden beds can help absorb excess water and reduce runoff. You may also want to consider installing French drains, rain gardens or permeable paving solutions to improve drainage and prevent erosion. Addressing drainage issues now can save you time and money down the line by avoiding water damage to your home's foundation and landscape four lawn care. Prepare your grass for winter dormancy. Don't forget about
your lawn as you prepare for fall, a healthy lawn going into winter will come back stronger in the spring. Start by aerating your lawn to relieve soil compaction and allow water, air and nutrients to reach the grass roots, follow up with a fall fertilizer to provide essential nutrients that will help the grass survive the winter and green up quickly in the spring, if you have any bare spots, now is the time to re seed them, so the grass has time to establish before the colder weather sets in. Five final touches, clean and store outdoor furniture and equipment. Take the time to clean and
store any outdoor furniture and equipment. This step will help protect them from the harsh winter weather and extend their lifespan. Store furniture in a dry, covered area like a garage or shed or invest in weatherproof covers. If indoor storage isn't an option, don't forget to drain garden hoses and store them indoors to prevent them from fracking in freezing temperatures. By taking these steps now, you can ensure your yard is well prepared for fall and winter, helping to maintain its beauty and functionality throughout the colder months. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in
keeping your Portland Metro home and yard in top shape all year round. Thank you for joining us on the walls business podcast as we wrap up, remember that our journey is more than just about building and design. It's about creating a legacy of community craftsmanship and the distinct charm that makes our city unique. Keep following us for more stories, challenges and triumphs that not only shape our business but also enrich our local landscape until next time, let's continue to build a sustainable future together. Thank you for listening and keep growing with us. You.