Why Summer Maintenance Matters
We Austinites know summer brings blazing sun, surprise storms, and sky‑high energy bills. A proactive summer tune‑up keeps your home comfortable, efficient, and market‑ready – whether you plan to list next month or next decade. With this article, I aim to offer you a handful of tips to help you optimize your home for the Texas summer and protect its long‑term value.
Quick‑Hit Summer Checklist
Follow the ABCs! Airflow – Barrier – Curb appeal. Now, you may be thinking, “Curb appeal only applies when I’m selling my home, but I don’t plan on moving anytime soon.” To that we say that you should always treat your home as if you were going to be selling it. It’s the best mindset to have to protect your investment, and to ensure that your home is in peak condition.
A-B-C Task Why It Matters
| Airflow | Replace HVAC filter, clear supply vents | Boost efficiency, cut cooling costs |
| Barrier | Inspect roof & attic insulation | Blocks Texas heat, prevents leaks |
| Curb Appeal | Power‑wash siding & touch‑up paint | Protects surfaces, protects your investment! |
1. HVAC ‑ Breathe Easy & Save Money
I recommend:
- Replace or clean filters every 30 days – especially if you have pets.
- Hose down outdoor condenser coils to remove debris and dust.
- Inspect ductwork for loose connections; seal with foil tape, not standard duct tape.
- Schedule a professional tune‑up before triple‑digit temps arrive. Austin Energy often offers seasonal rebates – check their site for current promos.
2. Roof & Gutters ‑ Protect From Pop‑Up Storms
- Walk the perimeter with binoculars; look for lifted shingles or missing flashing.
- Clean gutters & downspouts (use a gutter scoop or shop vac attachment).
- Check attic insulation depth – R‑38 is ideal for Central Texas. Top up if you see joists peeking through.
- Trim tree limbs at least 6 feet away to prevent wind damage.
Pro Tip: After a hailstorm, document roof condition immediately for insurance purposes – photos with timestamps help speed claims.
3. Exterior & Landscaping ‑ Boost Curb Appeal
- Pressure‑wash siding, paths, and porch; remove mildew that thrives in humid evenings.
- Touch‑up paint on trim and fascia – neutral palettes like “Mueller Tan” (Sherwin‑Williams SW 7531) stay on‑trend.
- Re‑caulk windows and doors to seal gaps and reduce A/C loss.
- Inspect irrigation system for leaks; set smart controllers to comply with City of Austin watering schedule.
- Mulch flower beds 2‑3 inches deep to lock in moisture and deter weeds.
4. Indoor Safety Check ‑ Peace of Mind Year‑Round
- Test smoke & CO detectors; replace batteries on a holiday or other easy to remember date.
- Review fire extinguishers – look for full gauge and expiration date.
- Drain a gallon from the water heater to flush sediment; set the water heater thermostat to 120°F to save energy.
- Clean dryer vent line (not just the lint trap); clogged vents are a leading cause of house fires.
5. Pool & Patio ‑ Summer Fun, Minus the Headaches
- Balance pool chemicals weekly; Austin’s hard water can spike calcium levels fast.
- Inspect deck boards; sand splinters and apply UV‑blocking sealant.
- Tighten hardware on railings and outdoor furniture.
- Install outdoor string lights with LED bulbs – energy efficient and Instagram‑ready for twilight showings.
Staying ahead of summer home maintenance keeps your property cool, safe, and ready to impress future buyers. I like to think of myself as more than just a Realtor – I’m your year‑round home advisor.
➡️ Need contractor referrals? Call me at (512) 809-3497 or email [email protected] and I can help you out!