Get Your Home Ready for a Houston Summer: Smart Maintenance Inside & Out

Get Your Home Ready for a Houston Summer: Smart Maintenance Inside & Out

Summer in Houston isn’t just hot—it’s relentless. Long days, high humidity, and intense UV can take a toll on your home (and your wallet if you’re not prepared). Here’s your quick checklist to protect your investment and stay cool, plus a few pro tips most people overlook.

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✅ Exterior Checklist: Defend Against the Heat

1. Check & Clean Gutters
Summer storms can bring heavy rain. Clear out leaves and debris now so water flows freely and doesn’t pool around your foundation.

2. Inspect Roof & Flashing
High temps expand roofing materials. Have a roofer check for cracked shingles or loose flashing that could become a leak later.

3. Tune-Up the Sprinkler System
Test for broken heads, adjust spray zones to avoid wasting water, and set a smart timer so your yard gets water before the heat peaks (usually early morning).

4. Power Wash Driveways & Siding
Heat and moisture = mold and mildew. A quick power wash keeps your home looking sharp and helps spot any early damage.

5. Shade Windows
Add outdoor solar screens or install UV-reflective window film. These can reduce interior temps by 10–15 degrees.

🌟 Pro Tip: Paint or caulk any exposed wood trim. The Houston sun will destroy unprotected wood in just one summer season.

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✅ Interior Checklist: Stay Cool & Energy Smart

1. Schedule an A/C Tune-Up
This is not the time for surprises. Ensure your system is clean, refrigerant is topped off, and filters are changed monthly.

2. Seal Windows & Doors
Walk around and feel for hot air leaks. Use weatherstripping or silicone caulk to seal up those energy vampires.

3. Reverse Ceiling Fans
Make sure they spin counterclockwise in the summer to push cool air down.

4. Clean Out the Dryer Vent
Lint build-up = fire risk and extra heat. A quick clean improves efficiency and keeps your laundry room cooler.

5. Install a Smart Thermostat
Set it to raise the temp when you’re away, and cool things down just before you get home—without lifting a finger.

🌟 Pro Tip: Close off unused rooms during peak heat hours. This reduces the load on your A/C and keeps your main living spaces cooler.

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🛠️ Bonus Pro Tips You’ll Thank Me For

• Attic Ventilation: If your attic isn’t venting properly, it can reach 150°F+. Have a roofer check your ridge or turbine vents and consider a solar attic fan.
• Pest Control Check: Ants and roaches thrive in the summer. Treat the perimeter now to avoid infestations when they come looking for cool air and water.
• Energy Audit: Many utility companies offer free or low-cost home energy audits. Small changes (like extra insulation or upgraded ductwork) can lead to big savings.

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Here’s to staying cool and protecting what matters most—your home!