Fall Upkeep Projects for New Homeowners in Oklahoma City

By Julie DeLong, A-1 Freeman Moving Group 

Now that the movers have gone, and you're legitimately a homeowner, rather than getting in touch with your landlord in the event the furnace goes on the fritz, or perhaps the roof leaks, guess who must repair it? That's right--you do. Chances are very good that little fact was disregarded in all your excitement over moving to Oklahoma City and also new stuff (which perhaps included a leaf blower), but now that autumn is really around the corner, it's time to prepare your new home prepared for chilly weather conditions. There isn't any reason to panic, simply adhere to these helpful hacks and you'll be equipped for chestnuts roasting on an open fire in no time.

Furnace

To the extent that you enjoy having A/C during summer, in the event it breaks down for a couple of days you can get by. When your furnace has a winter break, particularly if it's in the middle of a "weather event", your actual survival could be on the line.

Taking a look at your furnace is a priority on the to-do list. If you are a smart home buyer, and you are, then you certainly had the HVAC checked out prior to when you closed on the house. You may have confidence that the mechanics are in solid condition, however you ought to do these basic duties at least each year. 

• Replace filters--you need to swap your filters every 3 months, unless you have a permanent one. In that case, dismantle it and wash it on the same time frame.

• Check that the vents are open and remove any build up from the unit--a leaf blower does a great job.

• Switch to smart thermostat--they save lots of power because they're set up to automatically reset throughout the day. 

Roof

Safety first--before you get on the roof in Oklahoma City, ensure you have the correct ladder plus a assistant to steady the ladder and also catch you if you fall--or at least phone Emergency services. If not, work with a roofing company to come get rid of the debris and clean the gutters.

If you are positive you can go up there and back again safely, here is what you do. 

• Get rid of any tree branches or any other build up which might be up there.

• Clear the rain gutters. Blocked rain gutters lead to more roof damage as opposed to the snow, wind, and rain--if the water cannot pass easily through, pooling water results in leaks. Pooling water which freezes seeps into roofing shingles which will help your roof to leak faster. The leaf blower is quite suitable for gutter maintenance, as well. Getting a clog-free rain gutter system is a good idea for those who have a wooded yard. 

Windows and Doors

If your residence has more recent, energy-efficient windows and doors, clean the build up from the frames and look that the weather-stripping is neat in addition to maintained. This is a good project for a windy day--it is more straightforward to tell if there are holes when you are able feel the air flow. In the event the weather-stripping is degrading, remove and replace it--it is reasonably priced and found in several colors at home improvement retailers.

Should you have older windows with screens, take away the screens and replace them with storm windows. The storms are thicker glass which help hold on to heat.

Chimney

Once again, considering the fact that you have only not too long ago purchased the residence, the chimney for a wood burning fireplace really should be in suitable working order. It is still a good idea to pay attention to any rubble that's fallen in, in addition to small wildlife which may have thought they would nest there. You don't want the initial roaring fire being enhanced with eau de bird.

Outdoor Furniture

How you take care of your outdoor areas will depend enormously on where you reside. In certain regions, you can utilize your backyard year 'round; in others you'll want to start buttoning up by early Fall. In case harsh conditions are an expected standard, protect your outdoor furniture or perhaps take it inside in the garage or even basement, and cover up grills, also. Plastic toys (playhouses, sandboxes) need shelter, so cover those as well--it's good to have those outdoors for sunny days when the kiddies need to get outside.

Congrats on transforming into a home owner in Oklahoma City, and in case you do not presently have a leaf blower, get one. It is the best tool conceivable for house maintenance.

And, if you wish to become a new homeowner and need assistance moving in Oklahoma City, give A-1 Freeman Moving Group a call!!