The Cost of Home Maintenance in Spring, Tx

Let's face it.  Home Maintenance is NOT fun, especially down here in Texas where it is Hot, Humid...then to put work on top of it.  Maintenance just slips our mind sometimes.  Hurricane Ike was a small reminder that we should not forget about these things.

When Ike rolled through, it pointed out all of the weak areas of our homes.  For some homes it was siding- Others it was fencing and trees.  How about roof damage?

One thing that I think would be good for us to consider is maybe once a year, the Spring in Coastal areas, to take a look around the exterior of our homes to see if there is anything that needs to be done.  Once Hurricane season rolls through, it could be too late.  So, here is a list that I recommend us to check out ATLEAST once a year.

• Fences-  So, they may look a little old.  How about those posts?  With our rainy weather, ants and termites they tend rot quickly.  Fences are often times the first thing to go in Hurricanes and Tropical Storms.  If the fence is ok but the posts are questionable, just change out the posts while you can.
• Roof-  Yes, they can sometimes last 20-25 years, but with our hot and humid climate sometimes they will only last 10 or maybe 12.  If it has been a while since you checked out the roof, climb up or call someone out.  The shingles are what keeps the weather from finding its way inside.
• Trees-  They are so beautiful!  But when it comes to storms they can be projectiles, flying objects, falling objects...all of the above?  None of which are good.  Maybe have a tree person come out once a year like you would for a termite inspection? 
  
• General siding and exterior maintenance-  Ugh. No fun at all and can be costly.  But if the siding or trim gets ripped off, it will cost even more to fix when you have water running inside the home.
• Windows-  Besides making your home more energy efficient, caulking them can help keep rain and wind OUT of your home.  Spring is a great time to check this also.
• Weather Stripping around Doors-  Another one that can help your light bill, but keep water out.  Again, Spring time will help your summertime utility bill and help during Hurricane season.
  
• Pools-  Make sure those drains work!
• Yard Drainage-  Nuff said.  If you think you need some help with drainage in your yard during light storms, don't wait until a big one rolls through.
• Sheds or Storage areas-  Don't forget about those.  They can get weak over time.

This is not even everything, but most of the exterior items that are open to the wrath of mother nature.  Below is a video that I took about 7 hours before the storm hit.  The oak tree on the left?  I was quite worried about it.  The winds were going to atleast double in speed and it was really swaying.  Below that are the pictures of the Oak Tree now.  It's not my home, but the amount that insurance is wanting to pay to help cover the damage?  Not even close, and it is the child's bedroom where it landed.  Everyone was ok, but it was a REAL reminder that we need to keep our homes in check in case a storm rolls through again.