Tips for fall home maintenance
The Better Business Bureau of Greater Houston and South Texas offers these tips when preparing your home for the cooler weather:
• Inspect your roof and clean those gutters. A buildup of leaves and other debris can cause your gutters and downspouts to not drain properly. Improper draining can make water spill over your gutters which can lead to foundation damage and damage to your fascia boards. Damaged or loose shingles can let in water or ice during the winter, which can create interior damage. Reach out to a roofer to get a complete inspection.
• Test your smoke and carbon dioxide detectors. Making sure these
important safety tools are in proper working condition is easy and vital to ensuring the safety of those in your home. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has information on carbon monoxide detectors at https://www.cpsc.gov.
• Organize your garage. You will undoubtedly use your garage a lot more in the colder months. Get rid of trash and clutter and make sure winter-use items are
easily accessible. Fill or repair any cracks or holes you see to prevent bugs and rodents from entering that will be seeking refuge from the cold. Look for garage organizers near you.
• Inspect the driveway. The colder conditions in many areas, along with tree roots and ground shifting, can cause driveways to develop areas of needed repair. Fall is a great time to fill cracks and sealcoat to prevent wintertime water or ice damage.
• Schedule HVAC maintenance. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, preventive maintenance can help save you up to 25% in energy costs. Heating contractors near you can help you professionally service your heating unit. Verify licensed contractors with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation at https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/.
• Tend to the outside water supply. Cover up your outside water spigots. Spigot covers help keep the exterior pipes from freezing and are reasonably priced at your local hardware store. Empty hoses of any water and move them indoors.
Visit www.bbbhouston.org or call 713-868-9500.