Living in East Texas means dealing with a mix of hot, humid summers, mild winters, and unpredictable weather patterns, including heavy rain and the occasional ice storm. To protect your home from these varied conditions, seasonal maintenance is essential. Regular upkeep will not only preserve the value of your home but also prevent costly repairs in the near future.
Here’s a guide to the most important home maintenance tasks for East Texas homeowners, broken down by season.
Spring: Clean Up After Winter’s Damp and Prep for Storms
Spring in East Texas brings rain, wind, and the beginning of the region’s famous humidity. Now is the time to assess any damage from winter and prepare your home for the rainy season and storm potential.
1. Inspect and Clean Gutters
Spring rains can wreak havoc if your gutters are clogged. Clear out leaves, twigs, and other debris to ensure water drains properly away from your home. Improper drainage can lead to foundation problems, which are especially common in Texas due to the shifting clay soil.
- Tip: Consider extending downspouts away from your foundation to prevent water pooling, which could lead to basement flooding or foundation cracks.
2. Roof Check and Repairs
East Texas winters are mild, but the occasional ice storm or heavy rain can damage roofs. Inspect your roof for missing or damaged shingles, and check for any leaks. Given the storms that hit the region, you’ll want to ensure your roof is in good shape before the next downpour.
3. Prepare for Severe Weather
Spring often brings severe thunderstorms and the threat of tornadoes. Now is a good time to inspect storm doors and windows, reinforce any weak spots, and ensure you have a weather safety kit on hand.
- Tip: Trim back any large tree limbs near your home to reduce the risk of them falling during storms.
4. HVAC Tune-Up
With summer’s heat just around the corner, spring is the perfect time to have your air conditioning system serviced. A professional tune-up will ensure your AC is running efficiently, which is vital for those long, hot Texas summers.
5. Check Your Foundation for Cracks
As the East Texas soil expands and contracts with changing temperatures and moisture levels, foundation cracks can develop. Walk around your home’s exterior and look for any signs of cracking or shifting. Small cracks can usually be sealed, but larger issues may require professional help.
Summer: Beat the Heat and Protect Against Humidity
Summer in East Texas is hot and humid, which means you need to focus on keeping your home cool and moisture-free. Summer storms also bring heavy rains, so flood prevention is key.
1. Inspect and Seal Windows and Doors
High summer temperatures mean higher cooling costs. Check your windows and doors for air leaks and re-caulk or replace weatherstripping to keep your home cool and energy-efficient.
2. Clean and Inspect the HVAC Unit
Your AC unit works overtime in East Texas. Clean or replace your air filters every 30-60 days during the summer months to maintain efficiency. Additionally, ensure that the exterior unit is free of debris and has adequate airflow.
- Tip: Consider installing a programmable or smart thermostat to better manage your cooling needs and lower your energy bill.
3. Check for Mold and Mildew
East Texas humidity can lead to mold and mildew growth, particularly in damp areas like bathrooms, basements, and attics. Regularly inspect these spaces for signs of moisture and clean any affected areas with mold-killing solutions.
4. Yard Maintenance and Tree Trimming
Summer storms can bring high winds and heavy rain. Keep your yard well-maintained by trimming trees and shrubs. Not only will this enhance your home’s curb appeal, but it will also reduce the risk of branches falling during a storm and damaging your home.
5. Test the Sump Pump
If your home has a basement or is prone to flooding, test your sump pump to ensure it’s in working order before heavy summer rains hit. A sump pump will help prevent water from entering your home during a storm.
Fall: Get Ready for Cooler Weather and Unpredictable Storms
Fall in East Texas is mild, but you should take advantage of the cooler weather to prepare for winter and perform some necessary maintenance tasks before the holiday season.
1. Check and Clean Gutters Again
Fallen leaves and other debris can quickly clog your gutters in the fall. Clear them out to prevent rainwater from overflowing and causing foundation or roof damage.
2. Inspect and Service the Furnace
While winters in East Texas are mild, there can still be cold snaps. Have your furnace inspected and serviced to ensure it’s in working condition. Change the air filters and check that your home is properly insulated to avoid heat loss.
3. Prepare Outdoor Faucets and Irrigation Systems
While freezing temperatures are rare in East Texas, they do happen. Drain and disconnect garden hoses and protect outdoor faucets from freezing by using insulated covers.
4. Inspect the Roof and Chimney
Before winter arrives, inspect your roof for any lingering damage from summer storms and check your chimney if you plan to use your fireplace during the cooler months. Clear out any debris that may have accumulated during summer.
5. Seal Gaps and Add Insulation
Check for drafts around windows, doors, and attic spaces. Seal any gaps with weatherstripping or caulking and add insulation as needed. This will keep your home comfortable and energy-efficient as temperatures drop.
Winter: Protect Against the Rare but Possible Cold Snaps
Winter in East Texas is generally mild, but temperatures can dip, and ice storms or even occasional snow aren’t out of the question. Winter maintenance should focus on staying safe, preventing frozen pipes, and keeping your home warm.
1. Insulate Pipes
Even with East Texas’ mild winters, the occasional freeze can lead to frozen or burst pipes. Insulate exposed pipes in your attic, garage, or under the house, and keep a slow trickle of water running during particularly cold nights to prevent freezing.
2. Prevent Ice Dams
While uncommon, ice dams can form on roofs during cold snaps. Make sure your attic is well-ventilated and insulated to prevent heat from escaping and causing snow to melt and refreeze on your roof.
3. Check Weatherstripping
With colder weather, it’s important to ensure that heat isn’t escaping through drafty doors or windows. Reapply weatherstripping or add new caulking to keep warm air inside and cold air out.
4. Prepare for Power Outages
Winter storms can lead to power outages, so ensure you have an emergency kit with flashlights, blankets, and enough supplies to last a few days without power. If power outages are common in your area, consider investing in a backup generator.
5. Inspect Water Heaters
Your water heater works harder in the colder months, so inspect it for signs of wear. Consider flushing it out to remove sediment buildup and ensure it’s heating efficiently.
Year-Round Maintenance: Staying Proactive
No matter the season, there are some home maintenance tasks you should stay on top of year-round to keep your East Texas home in great shape:
- Pest Control: East Texas’ warm climate makes it a haven for pests like termites, ants, and rodents. Regularly inspect for signs of infestations and keep up with pest control treatments.
- Foundation Inspections: The expansive clay soil common in East Texas can cause foundation issues. Regularly inspect for cracks or signs of movement and address any issues early.
- Appliance Maintenance: Keep your appliances in top working order by regularly cleaning and servicing them, particularly your water heater, HVAC system, and kitchen appliances.
- Check for Water Leaks: Regularly inspect plumbing for signs of leaks, especially in areas prone to moisture like under sinks, around toilets, and in basements.
Final Thoughts
Maintaining your home in East Texas requires a little extra attention to the region’s unique weather patterns. By staying proactive and tackling seasonal tasks, you can protect your home from the elements and ensure it stays comfortable year-round. Whether it’s prepping for summer’s heat or preparing for the rare winter freeze, following these seasonal tips will help you avoid costly repairs and keep your home in top shape.
