Spring comes early in Texas.  The Texas winter is over and now it’s time for what else? After a long, dark winter, spring’s bright sun and warm winds here. However, if you are a home owner, you might want to consider these spring home maintenance tips to get your home in top shape for the Texas conditions.

• Check gutters. Improper drainage can lead to water in places you don’t want. Make sure downspouts drain away from the foundation.
• Use a screwdriver to probe the wood trim around windows, doors, railings and decks. Make repairs now before the spring rains do more damage to the exposed wood.
• From the ground, examine roof shingles to see if any were lost or damaged during winter. If your home has an older roof covering, you may want to start a budget for replacement. The summer sun can really damage roof shingles. Shingles that are cracked, buckled or loose or are missing granules need to be replaced. Flashing around plumbing vents, skylights and chimneys need to be checked and repaired by a qualified roofing contractor.
• If you used your chimney a lot last winter have the flue inspected and cleaned by a certified chimney sweep.
• Inspect concrete slabs for signs of cracks or movement. All exterior slabs except pool decks should drain away from the home’s foundation. Fill cracks with a concrete crack filler or silicone caulk. When weather permits, power-wash and then seal the concrete.
• Check the firewood.  Firewood should be at least 18 inches off the ground at least 2 feet from your home.
• Have your outer AC cleaned and serviced. Clean coils operate more efficiently, and an annual service call will keep the system working at peak performance levels and save you money. Change interior filters on a regular basis as prescribed by your AC professional.
• Make sure your lawn equipment is ready for heavy Texas summer use. Clean equipment and sharp cutting blades will make yardwork easier.