We said it during the spring and it still rings true for fall home maintenance. The best insurance claim is to have no insurance claim. Save yourself time and headache by taking some simple steps to prepare your home for the cooler weather.

Roof and Gutters

It's time to check up top again, but leave it to a qualified professional to do it if you don't feel comfortable accessing your roof. The summer heat can give a roof a good beating. Do your shingles need repair or replacement? Check those gutters again for stability and for asphalt (the telltale sign of worn shingles).  When the rain comes, you want your gutters and downspouts to flow properly. Get rid of any blockage.

Paint and Sealing

So, you took our advice and prepared your deck and siding for the warmer weather. Now, after many a pool party, it's time to make sure your deck held up well to the traffic. Did your siding hold up well to the 90+ degree weather? Check again for cracks and splintering. Make sure that water hose or irrigation system didn't cause any excess moisture on your siding.

Trees

Falling leaves mixed with cool weather make for a good season. Too many leaves against your foundation make for a good fire hazard. Take time to trim trees today so you'll enjoy the leaf piles without letting them consume your yard. You'll want to make sure those branches won't pose any danger during upcoming fall and winter storms.

Foundation

The hot, Texas summer wreaked havoc on foundations, shrinking and moving soil. You knew to water your foundation and your foundation sits in great shape. Or does it? Once again, inspect your home for any cracking on exterior and interior walls. Make certain your land slopes gradually away from your home and that your floors are level.

Water Heater

We said you should replace an 8 to 12 year old water heater. So, not much to talk about here, right?

Doors and Windows

Again, summer heat did a number. Reseal caulk on doors and windows that require it. When the brisk air blows, don't give it a pathway into to your home.

Detectors

Though fall is about winding down to the end of the year, don't let your smoke and carbon monoxide detector batteries wind down. Refresh them if needed. You want them to work in a pinch.

Keep it cool this fall by taking steps to prevent home repair from heating up.

Contact Insurance For Texans if you’d like to know more about saving money on your insurance without sacrificing great coverage.