Fall Upkeep Endeavors for New Homeowners in Atlanta

By Julie DeLong, A-1 Freeman Moving Group 

After the movers have left, and you're legitimately a homeowner, as opposed to getting in touch with your landlord if the air conditioner goes on the fritz, or maybe the roof leaks, guess who has to make it better? That's accurate--you do. Odds are pretty good that modest detail was brushed aside in all your eagerness about moving to Atlanta as well as new stuff (that with any luck included a leaf blower), but now that autumn is unquestionably around the corner, it's time to prepare your new home ready for colder weather. There's no reason to panic, simply stick to these practical hacks and you will be prepared for chestnuts roasting on an open fire before you know it.

Furnace

As much as you enjoy having AC during summer, if it breaks down for several days you are able to carry on. If your furnace has a winter break, specifically if it's in the midst of a "weather event", your actual survival might be at stake.

Checking your furnace tops the to-do list. If you're a intelligent home buyer, and you are, then you certainly had the Heating and air conditioning examined prior to when you closed on the new abode. You should have confidence that the insides are in solid working order, however you should do these basic duties no less than annually. 

• Replace filters--you should change your filters every 90 days, except if you have a permanent one. In that case, take it off and clean it on the same timetable.

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

• Switch to smart thermostat--they preserve lots of power since they're set up to automatically reset during the day. 

Roof

Safety first--before you climb on the roof in Atlanta, be sure you have the appropriate ladder plus a assistant to steady the ladder and catch you should you stumble--or at a minimum contact Emergency services. Otherwise, hire a roofing company to come remove the crud and tidy the gutters.

If you're positive you can proceed up there and return safe and sound, here's what you need to do. 

• Remove any tree branches or any other debris that might be up there.

• Clean up the gutters. Clogged rain gutters lead to more roof damage than the snow, wind, and rain--if the water is unable to run cleanly through, pooling water results in leaks. Pooling water that freezes penetrates into roofing materials and will allow your roof to leak quicker. The leaf blower is pretty beneficial for gutter cleanup, too. Investing in a clog-free rain gutter system is a good idea if you've got a wooded lot. 

Doors and Windows

In the event your residence has current, energy-efficient windows and doors, clear the debris from the frames and check that the weather-stripping is neat as well as tidy. This is a great project for a blustery day--it is less difficult to determine if there are holes when you can feel the breeze. In the event the weather-stripping is degrading, replace it--it is economical and available in several colors at home improvement retailers.

If you have older windows with screens, take away the screens and replace them with storm windows. The storms are more substantial glass that help hold on to warmth.

Chimney

Just as before, since you have just a short while ago bought the house, the chimney for a wood burning fireplace really should be in suitable working order. It's still a good idea to pay attention to any debris that's fallen in, along with little wildlife that have chosen to nest there. You wouldn't want the initial roaring fire to become enhanced with eau de squirrel.

Outdoor Furniture

How you handle your outdoor living areas depends significantly on your geographical area. In some parts of the country, you can use your backyard year 'round; in others you'll want to start buttoning up by early Fall. If harsh conditions are standard, protect your furniture or perhaps carry it inside into the garage or even basement, and cover up bbq grills, as well. Plastic toys (playhouses, sandboxes) will need shelter, so cover up those as well--it is good to have those outdoors for sunny times when the kids want to get outside the house.

Great job on being a home owner in Atlanta, and if you do not already have a leaf blower, get one. It is the most convenient tool conceivable for house upkeep.

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