Although fall is barely creeping in, winter will be here before you know it. Some stores are already displaying the holiday decorations. So while checking your fireplace and chimney may be the last thing on your mind at the moment, it may be a good time to start preparing (since most of us take forever to get check off tasks on our to-do list anyway). Austin was hit by snow and ice last winter. Many people were ill-prepared and had pipes bust or faulty chimneys cause problems. In fact, many house fires are cause by fireplaces and chimneys that have not been repaired or maintained properly. You should have them inspected at least once a year to make sure there is no rust or cracks, not to mention animals, plaguing your chimney. Better to have it checked now when you don't need it. That way if a problem is discovered, you have some time to have it fixed before the cold weather hits. It may also be a good idea to have your heating and cooling system serviced, especially if it runs on gas. Insulating attics, windows, and doors are a few other projects you may want to look into. Routine maintenance costs are a lot more economical than disasters caused by the lack thereof.

Blog inspired by article written by Julie Bonnin featured in The Austin American Statesman and can be seen here: http://www.statesman.com/business/real-estate/winterize-your-house-austin-yes-really-897107.html