Autumn Maintenance Projects for New Homeowners in Houston

By Julie DeLong, A-1 Freeman Moving Group 

Now that the movers have gone, and you are really a homeowner, rather than getting in touch with your landlord in the event the furnace goes on the fritz, or the roof leaks, guess who gets to repair it? That is right--you do. Likelihood is very good that modest detail got brushed aside in all your joy over moving to Houston and new stuff (that hopefully contained a leaf blower), but now that autumn is really coming soon, it's time to get your new house ready for colder temperatures. There's no reason to panic, simply stick to these practical hacks and you'll be prepared for chestnuts roasting on an open fire before you know it.

Furnace

Even though you're keen on having AC during summer, no matter if it is out for several days you can carry on. If your furnace has a winter break, particularly if it's in the midst of a "weather event", your actual survival may be at stake.

Inspecting your furnace is at the top of the to-do list. If you are a bright home buyer, and you are, then chances are you had the Heating and cooling checked out before you closed on the new abode. You ought to have confidence that the insides are in solid working order, nevertheless you ought to do these simple tasks a minimum of each year. 

• Replace filters--you ought to replace your filters every 90 days, unless you have a permanent one. If that's the case, dismantle it 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 decent job.

• Switch to smart thermostat--they preserve a good amount of energy as they are programmed to automatically reset during the day. 

Roof

Safety first--before you climb on the roof in Houston, be sure you possess the correct step ladder along with a helper to steady the ladder as well as catch you in the event you stumble--or at the very least call 911. Otherwise, hire a roofing contractor to come clear the debris and tidy the gutters.

If you're confident you can proceed up there and back again safely, here's what you should do. 

• Get rid of any tree branches or other build up that is up there.

• Clean the gutters. Clogged gutters cause more roof damage compared to snow, wind, and rain--if the water can't pass easily through, pooling water leads to leaks. Pooling water that freezes penetrates into roofing shingles and will allow your roof to leak faster. The leaf blower is quite good for gutter cleanup, too. Getting a clog-free gutter system is a good idea for those who have a wooded yard. 

Windows and Doors

In the event your house has more recent, energy-efficient windows and doors, clean the debris from the frames and check that the weather-stripping is clean as well as in good appearance. This is a good task for a gusting day--it's more straightforward to determine if there are gaps when you can actually feel the air flow. In the event the weather-stripping is degrading, remove and replace it--it's economical and available in several colors at home improvement stores.

If you've got older windows with screens, take off the screens and change them with storm windows. The storms are heavier glass that help hold on to heat.

Chimney

Just as before, since you've just not too long ago bought the property, the chimney for a wood burning fireplace ought to be in good condition. It is still a smart idea to pay attention to any debris which is dropped in, along with small animals which have chosen to nest there. You don't want your first roaring fire to be enhanced with eau de squirrel.

Patio Furniture

How you handle your outdoor living spaces depends significantly on where you reside. In certain regions, you may use your backyard year 'round; in others you'll want to start buttoning up by the beginning of Fall. If severe weather conditions are an expected standard, protect your furniture or carry it inside in the car port or perhaps basement, and cover grills, too. Plastic toys (playhouses, sandboxes) need to have shelter, so cover up all those as well--it's nice to keep those outdoors for sunny times when the children need to get outside.

Congrats on becoming a home owner in Houston, and in case you do not already have a leaf blower, go get one. It is the best tool imaginable for house maintenance.

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