Autumn Maintenance Endeavors for New Homeowners in Wichita Falls

By Julie DeLong, A-1 Freeman Moving Group 

After the movers have gone, and you are officially a homeowner, instead of calling your landlord when the furnace goes on the blink, or the roof leaks, guess who has to repair it? That's right--you do. Likelihood is pretty decent that small fact was brushed aside in your joy about moving to Wichita Falls along with new stuff (that perhaps contained a leaf blower), but now that autumn is unquestionably around the corner, it is time to prepare your new residence ready for cooler weather conditions. There isn't any reason to worry, merely stick to these helpful hacks and you will be all set for chestnuts roasting on an open fire in no time.

Furnace

As much as you enjoy having AC during the warm months, if it is out for a couple of days it is possible to survive. When your furnace has a winter break, specifically if it's in the midst of a "weather event", your actual survival could be at risk.

Inspecting your furnace is at the top of the to-do list. If you're a wise home buyer, and you are, then you had the HVAC inspected prior to when you closed on the house. You may have confidence that the mechanics are in solid condition, however you should do these basic chores a minimum of each year. 

• Replace filters--you ought to swap your filters every 3 months, except if you have a permanent one. If that's the case, remove it and clean it on the same schedule.

• Check that the vents are open and get rid of any debris from the unit--a leaf blower will do a great job.

• Switch to smart thermostat--they preserve a great deal of energy as they are set up to automatically reset each day. 

Roof

Safety first--prior to when you get on the roof in Wichita Falls, make sure you possess the proper step ladder and a helper to hold the ladder as well as catch you in the event you stumble--or at the very least phone 911. Or, work with a roofing contractor to come get rid of the rubble and tidy the gutters.

For everybody who is positive you can proceed up there and back safely, here's what you do. 

• Remove any tree branches or other build up that is up there.

• Clean up the rain gutters. Blocked rain gutters lead to more roof damage compared to snow, wind, and rain--if the water cannot flow cleanly through, pooling water causes leaks. Pooling water that freezes seeps into roofing shingles and may allow your roof to leak quicker. The leaf blower is pretty suitable for gutter cleanup, also. Buying a clog-free gutter system is a good idea for those who have a wooded yard. 

Windows and Doors

If your residence has current, energy-efficient doors and windows, clear the build up from the frames and look that the weather-stripping is uncluttered and tidy. This is a great project for a gusting day--it's less difficult to tell if there are spaces when you can feel the wind. If the weather-stripping is degrading, exchange it--it really is inexpensive and available in a variety of colors at home improvement retailers.

If you have older windows with screens, take away the screens and change them with storm windows. The storms are more substantial glass which help keep heat.

Chimney

Once again, since you have only not too long ago purchased the house, the chimney for a wood burning fireplace really should be in good condition. It is always a good idea to check for any rubble which is dropped in, along with small wildlife which have chosen to nest there. You do not need your very first roaring fire to become enhanced with eau de bird.

Outdoor Furniture

How you treat your exterior areas is dependent significantly on your geographical area. In certain regions, you can utilize your patio year around; in others you have to commence buttoning up by the beginning of Fall. In case nasty conditions are normal, protect your furniture or even bring it inside into the garage or perhaps basement, and cover barbecue grills, also. Plastic toys (playhouses, sandboxes) will need shelter, so cover all those as well--it's very nice to keep those outside for sunny days when the kids really need to get outside the house.

Congratulations on transforming into a home owner in Wichita Falls, and in case you do not already have a leaf blower, get one. It is the handiest tool conceivable for home upkeep.

And, if you would like become a new homeowner and need assistance moving in Wichita Falls, give A-1 Freeman Moving Group a call!!