Fall Maintenance Endeavors for New Homeowners in Denver

By Julie DeLong, A-1 Freeman Moving Group 

After the movers have gone, and you're really a homeowner, instead of contacting your landlord in the event the furnace goes on the fritz, or the roof leaks, guess who gets to make it better? That is accurate--you do. Chances are very good that small fact was dismissed in your exhilaration about moving to Denver and new items (that perhaps contained a leaf blower), but now that autumn is really coming soon, it's time to ready your new residence prepared for colder weather conditions. There is no reason to stress, merely abide by these handy hacks and you will be all set for chestnuts roasting on an open fire in no time.

Furnace

As much as you love having AC in the summer, no matter if it breaks down for a couple of days you can get by. When your furnace has a winter break, specifically if it's in the midst of a "weather event", your actual survival might be on the line.

Taking a look at your furnace is at the top of the to-do list. If you are a intelligent home buyer, and you are, then chances are you had the HVAC checked out before you closed on the house. You should have confidence that the mechanics are in good working order, nevertheless you ought to do these basic tasks at least annually. 

• Replace filters--you should replace your filters every 3 months, except if you have a permanent one. If that's the case, take it off and wash it on the same schedule.

• Check that the vents are open and remove any dirt from the unit--a leaf blower does a decent job.

• Switch to smart thermostat--they conserve lots of power since they're programmed to automatically reset throughout the day. 

Roof

Safety first--before you get on the roof in Denver, be sure you possess the proper step ladder and a assistant to steady the ladder as well as catch you if you fall--or at least call Emergency services. If not, hire a roofer to come remove the crud and clean the gutters.

If you are confident you can get up there and return safe and sound, here's what you do. 

• Get rid of any tree twigs or other sorts of debris which might be up there.

• Clean up the rain gutters. Blocked gutters cause more roof damage than the snow, wind, and rain--if the water cannot circulate cleanly through, pooling water leads to leaks. Pooling water that freezes penetrates into roof shingles which will allow your roof to leak sooner. The leaf blower is quite good for gutter cleaning, as well. Investing in a clog-free rain gutter system is a wise idea in case you have a wooded lot. 

Doors and Windows

If your home has current, energy-efficient windows and doors, clean the clutter from the frames and look that the weather-stripping is clean in addition to tidy. This is an excellent project for a windy day--you'll find it less difficult to tell if there are spaces when you are able feel the wind. In the event the weather-stripping is degrading, replace it--it's economical and offered in a number of colors from home improvement retailers.

If you have older windows with screens, remove the screens and change them with storm windows. The storms are heavier glass that can help keep heat.

Chimney

Again, considering the fact that you've only recently attained the house, the chimney for a wood burning fireplace ought to be in suitable condition. It's still a smart idea to check for any clutter that has dropped in, along with small animals that have thought they would nest there. You wouldn't want the initial roaring fire being enhanced with eau de chipmunk.

Outdoor Furniture

The way in which you treat your outside living areas is dependent significantly on where you reside. In certain parts of the country, you can use your yard year 'round; in others you need to begin buttoning up by early Fall. If harsh weather is the norm, cover your outdoor furniture or even bring it inside in the garage or even basement, and cover bbq grills, as well. Plastic toys (playhouses, sandboxes) need to have shelter, so cover up all those as well--it's very nice to have those outdoors for sunny times when the kiddies need to get outdoors.

Congrats on being a home owner in Denver, and in case you don't presently have a leaf blower, get one. It's the handiest tool imaginable for house maintenance.

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