Fall Upkeep Projects for New Homeowners in Tulsa and Oklahoma City

By Julie DeLong, A-1 Freeman Moving Group 

After the movers have left, and you are legitimately a homeowner, as opposed to contacting your landlord when the furnace goes on the fritz, or perhaps the roof leaks, guess who has to make it better? That is accurate--you do. Odds are very good that little fact got pushed aside in all your eagerness over moving to Tulsa and Oklahoma City along with new things (which hopefully included a leaf blower), but now that fall is really on the horizon, it's time to prepare your new home prepared for chilly temperatures. There's no reason to worry, simply follow these handy hacks and you will be prepared for chestnuts roasting on an open fire in no time.

Furnace

As much as you're keen on having air conditioning in the summer, if it goes out for a couple of days it is possible to survive. But if your furnace has a winter break, specifically if it's within the center of a "weather event", your actual survival could be on the line.

Taking a look at your furnace tops the to-do list. If you're a intelligent home buyer, and you are, then you had the Heating and air conditioning examined prior to when you closed on the new abode. You ought to have confidence that the insides are in good working order, but you ought to do these relatively easy things a minimum of annually. 

• Replace filters--you need to swap your filters every 90 days, except if you have a permanent one. In that case, dismantle 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 does a pretty good job.

• Switch to smart thermostat--they conserve lots of power since they're set up to automatically reset each day. 

Roof

Safety first--prior to when you climb on the roof in Tulsa and Oklahoma City, be sure you have the appropriate step ladder plus a wingman to steady the ladder and also catch you if you topple--or at a minimum call Emergency services. Or, work with a roofing contractor to come clear the crud and clean the gutters.

If you are positive you can get up there and back again safely, this is what you need to do. 

• Clear away any tree branches or any other debris that is up there.

• Clear the gutters. Stopped up gutters lead to more roof damage compared to snow, wind, and rain--if the water can't run cleanly through, pooling water results in leaks. Pooling water that freezes penetrates into roof shingles and may help your roof to leak faster. The leaf blower is pretty good for gutter cleanup, also. Buying a clog-free gutter system is a good option if you have a wooded lot. 

Windows and Doors

Should your house has current, energy-efficient windows and doors, clear the clutter from the frames and look that the weather-stripping is uncluttered as well as tidy. This is a good project for a windy day--you'll find it less difficult to determine if there are spaces when you are able feel the air flow. In the event the weather-stripping is degrading, remove and replace it--it's reasonably priced and available in a variety of colors from home improvement retailers.

If you've got older windows with screens, take away the screens and change them with storm windows. The storms are thicker glass which help retain warmth.

Chimney

Just as before, since you have only a short while ago attained the residence, the chimney for a wood burning fireplace should be in good condition. It is still a smart idea to check for any rubble that's dropped in, as well as smaller sized wildlife which have decided to nest there. You wouldn't want your first roaring fire to be enhanced with eau de bird.

Outdoor Furniture

How you handle your outdoor living spaces depends greatly on your geographical area. In some regions, you can use your patio year 'round; in others you'll want to commence buttoning up by the beginning of Fall. In the event that nasty weather is the norm, cover up your furniture or perhaps carry it inside into the garage or even basement, and cover up bbq grills, also. Plastic toys (playhouses, sandboxes) require shelter, so protect those as well--it's very nice to have those outdoors for sunny times in the event the kids want to get outside.

Congratulations on becoming a home owner in Tulsa and Oklahoma City, and in case you don't presently have a leaf blower, go get one. It's the best tool imaginable for home maintenance.

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