Fall Upkeep Endeavors for New Homeowners in Little Rock

By Julie DeLong, A-1 Freeman Moving Group 

After the movers have left, and you're really a homeowner, as opposed to phoning your landlord in the event the air conditioner goes on the blink, or the roof drips, guess who gets to repair it? That is right--you do. Likelihood is very good that modest fact got brushed aside in all your exhilaration about moving to Little Rock and new things (that with any luck involved a leaf blower), but now that autumn is just on the horizon, it is time to get your new home prepared for chilly weather conditions. There isn't any reason to stress, simply adhere to these handy hacks and you will be ready for chestnuts roasting on an open fire before you know it.

Furnace

To the extent that you're keen on having AC during summer, in the event it goes out for several days it is possible to carry on. If your furnace has a winter break, particularly if it's within the center of a "weather event", your actual survival might be at stake.

Inspecting your furnace tops the to-do list. If you are a bright home buyer, and you are, then chances are you had the HVAC examined prior to when you closed on the new abode. You may have confidence that the insides are in good condition, but you should do these relatively easy duties at least annually. 

• Replace filters--you should change your filters every three months, except if you have a permanent one. If so, take it off and wash it on the same schedule.

• Check that the vents are open and take away any dirt from the unit--a leaf blower does a pretty good job.

• Switch to smart thermostat--they conserve lots of power because they're programmed to automatically reset each day. 

Roof

Safety first--before you get on the roof in Little Rock, be sure you possess the proper ladder along with a wingman to steady the ladder as well as catch you should you topple--or at the very least phone Emergency services. Or, work with a roofing contractor to come remove the debris and tidy the gutters.

If you are certain you can go up there and back safe and sound, here's what you need to do. 

• Get rid of any tree branches or other sorts of debris that might be up there.

• Clean the rain gutters. Blocked gutters lead to more roof damage compared to snow, wind, and rain--if the water can't run safely through, pooling water results in leaks. Pooling water that freezes seeps into roof shingles and will help your roof to leak faster. The leaf blower is quite suitable for gutter cleaning, too. Buying a clog-free gutter system is a good option in case you have a wooded yard. 

Windows and Doors

If your home has current, energy-efficient doors and windows, clean the clutter from the frames and look that the weather-stripping is clean in addition to in good appearance. This is a good project for a blustery day--you'll find it less difficult to determine if there are spaces when you can actually feel the wind. If the weather-stripping is degrading, remove and replace it--it is economical and available in a number of colors from home improvement stores.

If you have older windows with screens, remove the screens and change them with storm windows. The storms are more substantial glass that help hold on to heat.

Chimney

Once again, since you have just a short while ago purchased the house, the chimney for a wood burning fireplace really should be in decent condition. It is always a good idea to pay attention to any clutter that has dropped in, as well as little wildlife that have chosen to nest there. You wouldn't want your very first roaring fire to become enhanced with eau de bird.

Outdoor Furniture

How you handle your outside areas depends greatly on where you live. In certain parts of the country, you can use your yard year 'round; in others you need to start buttoning up by early Fall. In the event that nasty conditions are normal, cover up your outdoor furniture or perhaps take it inside in the car port or basement, and protect bbq grills, too. Plastic playthings (playhouses, sandboxes) need shelter, so protect all those as well--it's good to keep those outdoors for sunny times in the event the kids really need to get outside.

Good luck on transforming into a home owner in Little Rock, and in case you don't currently have a leaf blower, go get one. It's the handiest tool conceivable for house maintenance.

And, if you are looking to become a new homeowner and need assistance moving in Little Rock, give A-1 Freeman Moving Group a call!!