With the Holiday Season upon us, Houstonians finally get a break from the muggy weather! Hooray – the winter months are closing in! If you own property in the Houston, Texas real estate market, now is the right time to get your home ready to withstand the harsh winter conditions: dry air, winds, rain and low temperatures.
Start at the Top – From the ground, take a good look at your roof. If you notice any sagging, this might be an indicator of rotting or structural damage.
Check all the flashing, the thin metal strips around your vents or roof openings, for any leaks. In the cold months, these leaks could cause your home’s insulation to be useless!
Chimney Check – To insure unwanted moisture isn’t getting in through your chimney; make sure you have a chimney cap. These are easy to come by at any home repair store and are relatively inexpensive (around $40).
Also, make sure your damper operates freely, and check your chimney with a flashlight for any creosote buildup. This can be hazardous if not checked and cleaned. There are easy methods of cleaning your chimney of creosote, like using a “Chimney Sweeping Log.”
Leaf-Free Gutters – Keeping your gutters free of leaves makes for a drier home during heavy rains. Rain will seep under the shingles if it cannot escape through your home’s gutter system. There’s really no easy way to clean a gutter but getting on a ladder and scooping the leaves away with a scoop.
While up there, you should inspect your gutters to make sure there is no sagging or leaking.
Weather Stripping Works Wonders – By taking the time to inspect all your windows and repair or replace old weather stripping, you can save money in heating costs; not to mention, your property looks a lot better.
Pipe Insulating – Insulate all of your exterior faucets and pipe with foam insulation tape. This simple and inexpensive preventative can save you so much; nothing is more damaging than a burst water pipe. If possible, try to turn off the outside water supply as another step to prevent damage.
Even though our Houston winters are fairly mild compared to other areas, the conditions can still cause discomfort and damage if you do not prepare yourself for these conditions. You will save a lot of money if you take the time to follow these inexpensive steps now.
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