September Home Maintenance Tips for your Palestine TX House

September Home Maintenance Tips for your Palestine TX House

September Home Maintenance Tips

Just like that…fall is here! Luckily in Texas, we do not have to deal with deep winterizing and the truly cold weather is still a ways out. However, maintenance never sleeps and there are some basic maintenance “to-dos” that need to be done to prevent more expensive issues later on. Preventative maintenance is cheaper in the long run, and who doesn’t like to save a few bucks?! Keep your home in great fall shape with these September home maintenance tips:
GUTTERING– Before all the leaves fall, make sure the gutters are not already full of last year’s leftovers. You can “DIY” this or hire it out. Many yard service companies offer this service as the mowing season slows. It is much better to clean them out now and prevent possible issues caused by clogged gutters.
EXTERIOR CHECK –Walk the exterior of your home and visually check for rotten wood, loose shingles, raised nails and any other damage. Most repairs unfortunately don’t fix themselves and they definitely don’t get any cheaper.
While you are doing your exterior check, keep an eye out for any spots that critters are using to get into the house or attic. Critters can get in through small holes, so be thorough in your search. Squirrels, raccoons and mice can cause major (and expensive) damage by chewing wires. Also, it is really creepy to hear them having a grand ole time in your attic! Make sure to plug any holes, so they can’t turn your home into their favorite hotel.
LET’S VENT – There is no time like the present to clean the air vents/registers. For a quick dusting, use a duster wand or a dust cloth to remove any dust hanging in the cracks. If they need a deeper clean, remove the vents and take them outside and spray off the dust with a water hose. Make sure they are completely dry before rehanging them.
LET’S VENT AGAIN – Lint is the gift that keeps on giving, isn’t it? There is always lint to be cleaned out of a dryer vent. Give it a good cleaning and prevent a potential fire hazard.
PUMPKIN SPICE SMELLS SO NICE – I’m saving the best for last! Whoohoo! It’s time to get out the scarecrows, pumpkins and turkeys–it’s fall decoration time!
Always use caution and common sense when using ladders and doing any repairs on your property. While “DIY” may be a good option for some things, know yourself and your limits. Hire a professional when necessary. Most important of all, don’t forget to enjoy a pumpkin flavored anything before you start your to-do list!
 
Lisa E. Priest loves pumpkin flavored treats and is a Palestine, Texas Real Estate Broker / REALTOR® with Picket Fence Realty, Inc. You can reach her via phone or text at 903-948-3343 or read more at BuyPalestine.com