Summer Home Prep Checklist for Houston Heat & Humidity

Summer Home Prep Checklist for Houston Heat & Humidity

1. HVAC Tune-Up
   Schedule a professional checkup to clean coils, check refrigerant levels, and replace filters. You will be using it constantly—make sure it’s efficient and reliable.
2. Seal Doors & Windows
   Check for drafts and re-caulk or add weatherstripping where needed. This keeps the cool air in and the energy bill down.
3. Roof & Gutter Check
   Have your roof inspected for missing shingles and check gutters for clogs. Houston downpours can be sudden—make sure water is flowing away from your foundation.
4. Attic & Insulation Inspection
   A poorly insulated attic can trap heat, forcing your AC to work harder. Make sure vents are clear and insulation is sufficient.
5. Service Your Sprinkler System
   Run all zones, fix broken heads, and make sure you’re watering early in the morning to avoid evaporation and fungus growth.
6. Clean & Check Ceiling Fans
   Make sure fans are spinning counter-clockwise to push air down. It makes a big difference in comfort.
7. Treat for Pests Proactively
   The heat drives bugs inside—get ahead with a pest control treatment, especially for ants, roaches, and mosquitoes.

Extra Tip: Pest-Resistant Insulation Options

1. Boron-treated Cellulose Insulation

Bonus: It’s fire-retardant and great for reducing sound transfer.

What it is: Cellulose insulation made from recycled paper, treated with boric acid.

How it helps: The boric acid repels or kills insects like ants, cockroaches, termites, and silverfish.

Estimated Cost in Houston (2025)

Insulation Type	Average Cost per Sq. Ft.	Notes
Boron-treated Cellulose	$1.00–$1.50	Blown-in; good for attics

Quick Tip for Homeowners:

If you’re already dealing with pests, ask the insulation contractor if they can remove contaminated or chewed-up insulation BEFORE installing new product. Some even bundle pest exclusion services with insulation upgrades.