Tag Archives: maintenance

5 Helpful Home Maintenance Tips

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If you’re a savvy seasoned homeowner this might seem like common sense to you, but if, in fact,  you’re a first-time homeowner or aren’t used to performing routine maintenance on your house, then you might find this very helpful.

1.  Start by developing a home maintenance checklist that you can keep somewhere handy. Thanks to smart phones, you can simply store your checklist on your phone and even set up reminders for chores like changing filters and clearing gutters.

2.  If your thumbs aren’t green, consider hiring a professional tree-service company to inspect the trees on your property. This is especially important when you have large trees that could directly effect the structure of the house. They can identify potential problems, such as weak limbs that should be cut before a storm or roots that are cracking your foundation. They can also advise you on how best to take care of your trees so they live long, healthy lives!

3.  Save on water by making sure your toilets and facets don’t have any leaks. Sometimes these are easy DIY fixes, like changing a worn-out washer. Either way, it’s best not to let leaks go unattended.

4.  The easy task of checking your dryer vent can save you from disaster. The vent, not the lint trap, can get clogged with lint, which is a fire hazard.

5.  Did you know climate control systems often come with in-duct humidifiers? While this is great news for your skin, if you don’t keep these systems clean they can spawn unhealthy mold and bacteria, which will effect the air quality of your home. You should check it each spring – drain the unit, clean the reservoir (water and vinegar helps nicely) and breath easy!

Why not start fresh with a brand new custom-built home? Call us at 210-494-5400 to set up a consultation. If you wish to be added to our private email list for our newsletter, please sign up here.

Easy Home Maintenance and Energy-Saving Tips for Winter

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People often forget the importance of winterizing their homes, especially in San Antonio where we sometimes enjoy 80 degree weather in January, like we have already in 2015. Still the weather fluctuates and it’s best to be prepared for the temperatures to drop again. Regular maintenance of your home keeps your house in tip top shape and helps you save money in the long run. Here are a few smart tips on easy things you can do to guarantee the efficiency and longevity of your beautiful home:

  • Set Your Ceiling Fans to Run Clockwise. By moving the hot air towards the floor you’ll save money on your energy bill.
  • Replace Filters. We often forget to do it, but it’s a simple and inexpensive way to save money and protect your heating and cooling system.
  • Insulate Cracks in Doors and Windows. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, up to 30% of energy is wasted due to drafts. This will also help you save money in the summer months as well. Consider installing storm doors and windows, using window insulation film or, in a pinch, rolled up towels or scraps of fabric to block out drafts from underneath the doors.
  • Flush Your Water Heater. At least once a year, you should flush the build-up of sediment that collects in your water heater to maximize your unit’s efficiency. A build-up of hard minerals is a problem in South Texas and could result in expensive repairs or replacements. It’s also a good idea to lower the temperature on the water heater to 120 degrees F. If you’re considering transitioning to tankless water heaters, check out our recent blog to learn more.
  • Programmable Thermostat. Many people have these already but don’t use them. For every degree you lower your thermostat, you save up to 3% on your energy bill. Programmable Thermostats do the work for you, so you don’t forget to adjust the temp during the day when you’re not at home and at night.
  • Keep Your Gutters Clean. We don’t generally see much ice and snow, but allowing water drainage to flow freely not only avoids ice dams but prevents potential water damage during torrential rainfalls, which we are quite familiar.

 

You can also avoid all the messy hassle of winterizing an old home and consider a fresh start with a brand new custom built home from Stone Creek Custom Homes. We’re here when you’re ready! Call us at 210-494-5400.