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DIY Pest Control Solutions: Pros and Cons

. Posted by in • Houston

Home Pest Control Solutions

DIY Pest Control Solutions: Pros and Cons

Pest control is critical to maintaining a safe and healthy home environment. Common household pests, such as ants, spiders, cockroaches, termites, rodents, and wildlife, can cause significant damage and pose health risks.

While professional pest control services offer comprehensive solutions to these pest problems, many homeowners consider tackling pest issues on their own. However, it’s important to be aware of the additional cost that may arise if DIY methods are ineffective or if the bug problem worsens.

Professional service may provide more thorough treatment and protection for your family and home, addressing not only common pests but also issues like bees and other challenging infestations.

Understanding DIY Home Pest Control Solutions

DIY pest control involves using over-the-counter products and homemade remedies to manage and eliminate pests. These solutions range from traps and baits to natural deterrents and chemical sprays and can also include … Read Full Post »

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The Importance of Regular Pest Inspections for Homeowners

. Posted by in • Houston

The Importance of Regular Pest Inspections for Homeowners

As a homeowner, maintaining your property goes beyond just cleaning and repairs. One critical yet often overlooked aspect of home maintenance is regular pest inspections. Pests can wreak havoc on your home, posing health risks, causing structural damage, and leading to expensive repairs. This article explores the importance of regular pest inspections, the benefits they offer, and the best practices to ensure a pest-free environment.

Pest infestations can cause significant damage to your property. Termites, for example, can compromise the structural integrity of your home, while rodents can gnaw through electrical wires, creating fire hazards. Early detection and pest control measures are essential to prevent pest infestations from escalating into more severe problems.

Regular pest inspections can help property owners save money by identifying issues before they become major concerns. Addressing a small pest infestation early on is much more cost-effective than dealing with … Read Full Post »

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Why Is My Water Bill So High?

. Posted by in • Austin
a person's hand with a calculator and a bill

Key Takeaways

  • Water bill spikes are usually caused by hidden leaks or changes in household water use.
  • Running toilets and slab leaks are two of the most common culprits.
  • When in doubt, calling a licensed plumber can help prevent damage and avoid higher utility bills.

When homeowners see a sudden spike in their water bill, it can often lead to finger-pointing and frustration. Maybe your water pressure isn’t as strong as it used to be, or your toilet won’t flush all the way.

Most of the time, a higher water bill comes down to two things:

  • A hidden leak somewhere in your plumbing
  • A recent change in how much water your household uses

If you have kids home from college, guests staying over or a new garden that you’re watering more, you may also … Read Full Post »

How to Create a Wildlife-Friendly Garden

. Posted by in • Houston

Wildlife-Friendly Garden

How to Create a Wildlife-Friendly Garden

Creating a wildlife-friendly garden is a rewarding endeavor that enhances your outdoor space while supporting wild creatures. By incorporating local flora, providing protection, and creating diverse habitats, you can transform your outdoor space into a sanctuary for birds, pets, and other nature wild creatures. A well-designed wildlife garden not only beautifies your surroundings but also contributes significantly to the health of your local ecosystem.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to create a thriving wildlife habitat in your outdoor space, ensuring that it becomes a haven for various forms of nature and wild creatures. From feeding birds and supporting natural varieties to providing food for other insects and slow worms, you’ll learn how to make your garden wildlife-friendly.

By growing natural varieties, you create natural habitats that cater to the needs of wild creatures. Local Flora are crucial as they provide … Read Full Post »

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How to Prepare Your Pool for Winter: A Step-by-Step Guide

. Posted by in • Houston

Winter Pool Preparation

How to Prepare Your Pool for Winter: A Step-by-Step Guide

Thoroughly Clean Your Pool Before Winter

As the temperatures drop and the swimming pool season comes to a close, preparing your pool for winter is essential to ensure it remains in excellent condition for the next season.

Properly winterizing your above-ground pool or inground pool helps prevent damage caused by freezing temperatures, reduces maintenance in the spring, and prolongs the life of your pool. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to winterize both above-ground pools and in-ground pools, ensuring your pool is ready for the off-season.

Start with a thorough cleaning to remove debris and ensure a clean pool. For saltwater pools, adjust the water chemistry with pool shock and add shock to kill algae and bacteria growth.
Next, lower the water level to just below the skimmer and ensure you remove the remaining water from the pool pipes … Read Full Post »

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Why Is My Toilet Running?

. Posted by in • Austin
a running toilet

Key Takeaways

Running toilets are common and can waste hundreds of gallons each day. Use this guide to spot the signs, understand the most likely causes and know when to bring in a plumber.

A toilet that constantly runs can cause all kinds of issues for your household. The sound is annoying, but it can also cost you money. A running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day, which can add up fast.

Unfortunately, running toilets are very common. Any issue that allows water to leak from the toilet’s internal system can cause that nonstop flow. 

Below, we go into the most common causes and how homeowners can identify them, along with when it’s time to call in a plumber.

Quick Checklist

Use this short to-do list to help you figure out what might be going … Read Full Post »

The Importance of Regular Pool Inspections

. Posted by in • Houston

Pool Inspections

The Importance of Regular Pool Inspections

Maintaining a swimming pool involves more than just regular cleaning and chemical balancing. One of the most crucial aspects of pool care is scheduling regular pool inspections.

At ABC Home & Commercial, we understand that regular pool and spa inspections are essential for ensuring the safety, functionality, and longevity of your swimming pool. Whether it’s your residential pool or a commercial swimming pool, these inspections play a vital role in preventing potential issues.

Our skilled swimming pool inspectors conduct thorough swimming pool inspections to address any concerns and ensure your pool remains in excellent condition.

Why Regular Pool Inspections Matter

A thorough swimming pool inspection includes evaluating the pool deck, pool equipment, and any associated features. Our skilled swimming pool inspectors conduct detailed pool and spa inspections to identify potential hazards and ensure that all components are in top condition.

Regular pool inspections are crucial for … Read Full Post »

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The Best Time of Year to Power Wash Your Home

. Posted by in • Houston

Best Time To Power Wash

The Best Time of Year to Power Wash Your Home

If you’re looking to keep your home clean and well-maintained, knowing the best time to power wash your house is key. Power washing helps remove dirt, mold growth, mildew, and other debris that can build up over time on outdoor surfaces. The best time to pressure wash your house often depends on several factors, including the weather and environmental conditions.

For instance, spring is usually an excellent time because the temperatures are moderate and the risk of freezing weather is low. This helps you use your pressure washer effectively without worrying about winter weather arriving too soon. Fall is another good option, as it allows you to clear away build-ups before colder temperatures set in. Be mindful of factors like living near a dirt road or under leafy trees, which can increase the amount of debris on … Read Full Post »

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A Homeowner’s Guide To Termites In Texas

. Posted by in , • Austin
A group of termites on wood

The Lone Star State has a lot going for it. However, like any other part of the world, homeowners have a unique set of challenges specific to this region and climate. An unfortunate example is the destructive termite.

These tiny pests might not seem scary, but they cause millions of dollars’ worth of damage across the country every year. And since Texas is one of the more desirable locations for people and termites, this poses an issue for homeowners who don’t want to see their homes become a snack for these pests.

If you’ve discovered signs of termite activity in your home, or if you’re concerned you might have an underlying termite problem, this can be a scary moment. People invest a great deal of time and money in their homes. It’s the foundation for your family and your entire life. So what do you do now?

This guide helps Texas homeowners recognize … Read Full Post »

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How to Maintain Your Home’s Exterior Between Cleanings

. Posted by in • Houston

Maintain Your Home’s Exterior

How to Maintain Your Home’s Exterior Between Cleanings: A Comprehensive Guide

Keeping your home’s exterior in good shape might feel overwhelming, especially if you’re a new homeowner, but don’t worry! With a bit of regular cleaning and attention, you can avoid costly repairs and maintain a great-looking home. Here’s an easy guide to home exterior maintenance throughout the year.

Start by focusing on exterior maintenance to safeguard your home’s structural integrity. Regularly inspect your home for any needed repairs, such as fixing damaged wood siding or addressing issues with your roof. Maintaining your exterior paint in good condition is also crucial, as it helps prevent problems like mildew and deterioration. A well-maintained exterior paint job not only enhances the visual appeal but also acts as a protective layer against the elements.

Next, don’t forget about your gutters and downspouts. Regular gutter maintenance is essential for preventing water from backing … Read Full Post »

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