During October, summer’s heat has broken and winter hasn’t set in yet. It’s the perfect time to take care of home projects that help get your home ready for winter. Whether you’re ready to tackle a big project, or just flip a switch for an easy task, find some time to tend to a few October jobs.

Swipe through to learn about 7 home projects you should get done pronto.

Winterize the Lawn

If you have a lawn, now’s the time to get it ready for winter. Spread a thin layer of fertilizer—not too much. Aerate the lawn to break up thatch and allow air, moisture and nutrients to reach the grass’s roots. Finally, seed any bare spots with quick-growing winter grass.

Update the Mudroom

If you’ve been thinking of fixing up your mudroom, there’s no time like the present. Get it ready to handle wet boots, scarves, jackets, etc., that will be shed the minute family members come in from the cold. Even if it’s just a fresh coat of paint and a couple of hooks, you’ll be glad you gave this area of your home some love.

Patch Concrete

Winter will worsen cracks, chips and crumbling bits of concrete in driveways, porches and walkways, so tend to these issues before it gets too cold. You can purchase concrete repair material at home improvement stores and then apply it with a trowel.

Reverse Your Ceiling Fans

Keep your rooms warmer in winter by changing the direction of your ceiling fans this month. Switching them to run clockwise will force warm air down into the room.

Insulate the Attic

Insulating the atticis a big project, but it's a great way to keep your home warm and cut down on your heating bills. October is a good time to do it—after summer’s heat and before winter’s chill.

Ready the Fireplace

If you never got around to cleaning out the fireplace last winter, now’s the time. While you’re at it, give it a good onceover, checking for cracks or other problems. Check the flue for soot buildup and make sure the damper is operating properly.

Check the Smoke Detectors

Because October is National Fire Prevention month, it’s a good time to check that you have functional smoke detectors throughout your home. There should be one in every bedroom, and make sure you have one in the basement, too.