From foundation settling to attic insulation, here’s what homeowners in Austin, San Antonio, and across Central Texas need to know as their brand-new house finds its footing.

There’s nothing quite like the excitement of moving into a brand-new home in Central Texas. Fresh paint. Untouched floors. The feeling of being the very first to turn the key.

But as many new homeowners in Austin, San Antonio, New Braunfels, and surrounding communities quickly learn, a new build doesn’t stay perfectly still. In its first year, your home is adjusting — to the soil, to the seasons, and to the unique climate of Central Texas.

Understanding what’s normal during this “settling period” can protect your investment, reduce stress, and help you maintain long-term property value in one of the fastest-growing housing markets in Texas.

Your Home Is Finding Its Seat in Expansive Clay Soil

Across Central Texas — from Travis County to Bexar County and beyond — much of the region sits on expansive clay soil. This type of soil reacts dramatically to moisture changes.

When late winter and early spring bring dry conditions, the soil shrinks. When spring rains return, it swells again. That movement affects foundations, even in newly constructed homes built to modern standards.

This natural expansion and contraction is one reason new homeowners often notice small cosmetic changes within the first 12 months. The good news? Most of it is completely normal.

The “Is This Normal?” Checklist for New Builds

One of the most commonly searched questions in Central Texas real estate forums is: Are cracks in my new build normal?

In many cases, the answer is yes.

Drywall and Trim Changes

Hairline cracks over door frames, small separations where ceilings meet walls, or minor trim gaps are typical signs of a home settling — not structural failure. As framing lumber dries and the foundation adjusts slightly to soil movement, these cosmetic imperfections can appear.

They’re usually minor and repairable.

The Blue Tape Method

Many builders include an 11-month warranty walkthrough before the one-year mark. This is a critical time for homeowners to document cosmetic issues.

A practical strategy many Central Texas residents use is the “blue painter’s tape method.” Place a small piece of tape next to areas that need attention — nail pops, drywall cracks, or trim separation. It creates a simple, visual checklist for your warranty appointment.

It’s a low-pressure way to stay organized while protecting your builder warranty coverage.

The Systems “First Service”: Protecting What You Don’t See

While cosmetic issues are visible, some of the most important first-year maintenance items are hidden behind walls and vents.

Construction Dust and Your HVAC System

Even in a brand-new home, construction dust lingers inside ductwork and air returns. Before temperatures climb in April and May, replacing your HVAC air filter is one of the simplest and most effective maintenance steps you can take.

In Central Texas, where summer temperatures regularly soar above 100 degrees, your air conditioning system works hard. A clogged filter forces the system to strain, increasing energy bills and potentially shortening equipment lifespan.

Swapping the filter in late February or early March helps prepare your home for peak cooling season.

The Water Softener Check

Homeowners in Austin, San Antonio, and surrounding areas know the reality of hard water. Mineral-heavy water can leave white film on dishes, reduce appliance efficiency, and shorten the life of plumbing fixtures.

If your home includes a water softener system, check salt levels now — before signs of buildup appear. Staying ahead of this routine maintenance protects appliances and avoids costly service calls later.

Don’t Overlook Attic Insulation Before Summer Heat Arrives

As spring approaches, one of the most overlooked yet important areas of a new home is the attic.

Attic insulation plays a critical role in regulating indoor temperatures, reducing energy bills, and protecting HVAC systems during Central Texas summers. Poorly distributed or compressed insulation can allow heat to radiate into living spaces, forcing air conditioners to work harder.

Homeowners can take several proactive steps:

• Visually inspect insulation levels if safely accessible.

• Ensure insulation is evenly distributed and not blocking soffit vents.

• Confirm that attic access panels are properly sealed.

• Consider scheduling a professional energy audit if utility bills seem unusually high.

Proper attic insulation not only improves comfort but can significantly reduce cooling costs during peak summer months in Austin and San Antonio.

In a competitive real estate market, energy efficiency is also a key factor that supports long-term resale value.

Foundation “Hydration”: Managing Central Texas Soil Movement

Perhaps the most important long-term practice for new homeowners in Central Texas is maintaining consistent soil moisture around the foundation.

Because expansive clay shrinks when dry, large moisture swings can cause the soil to pull away from the foundation. That’s where the concept of foundation hydration comes in.

Many homeowners install soaker hoses around the perimeter of the home. The goal is not to soak the soil, but to maintain consistent moisture levels during dry periods.

Consistency is key. Sudden overwatering can be just as problematic as letting soil dry out completely.

If you’re unsure about proper watering schedules, local foundation specialists and builders often provide region-specific guidance based on soil conditions in your neighborhood.

Protecting Your Investment in a High-Growth Region

Central Texas continues to see strong housing demand and population growth. For homeowners in communities across Austin, San Antonio, New Braunfels, and surrounding counties, maintaining a new build properly during its first year is about more than cosmetic upkeep.

It’s about protecting:

• Property value

• Energy efficiency

• Builder warranty coverage

• Long-term structural stability

A well-maintained new home not only retains its value — it also provides peace of mind.

The first 12 months are less about perfection and more about understanding how your home responds to its environment. With simple, proactive care, homeowners can reduce stress, prevent avoidable repairs, and feel confident that their investment is positioned for the future.

As Central Texas heads toward another hot season, now is the time to check filters, inspect insulation, monitor foundation moisture, and prepare your home for the months ahead.

For more practical homeowner guidance and local property insights across Austin, San Antonio, and surrounding communities, stay tuned to My Neighborhood News.