Houston winters may not bring snowstorms or blizzards, but they can still pack a punch. Between unexpected cold snaps and sudden freezes, your home needs some love to survive the season. Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. Here’s your no-nonsense guide to winter-proofing your Houston home.
1. Inspect and Protect Your Home’s Exterior
Check Your Roof
Houston’s unpredictable weather can wreak havoc on your roof. Inspect it for missing shingles or loose flashing. If you see damage—or aren’t a fan of ladders—hire a professional. A little maintenance now prevents expensive leaks later.
Clean Those Gutters
Leaves love to clog gutters in fall, and those blockages can lead to water damage when winter rain hits. Clear them out or install gutter guards if you want an easy fix. Trust me, it’s worth it.
Seal Cracks and Gaps
Drafts don’t just make your home uncomfortable—they jack up your energy bill. Check around windows, doors, and vents. Add weather stripping or caulk where needed. You’ll feel the difference immediately.
Trim Those Trees
Mature trees typically should be trimmed every 3-5 years. This will prevent storm damage, protect your home, promote healthy growth and improve aesthetics and curb appeal.
Just before I listed my house early this year I wondered if it was a waste of money hiring a tree trimmer. Then Beryl came out of nowhere and just two days before we were closing. While some neighbors had trees through their roofs or branches that knocked down fences my house stood strong with no major damages. Trust me, trim those trees!
2. Prep Your Pipes Like a Pro
Insulate Exposed Pipes
Even in Houston, temperatures can drop low enough to freeze pipes. Wrap foam insulation around pipes in unheated areas like garages, attics, and crawl spaces. Outdoor faucets? Cover them with a faucet protector, available at any hardware store. I learned this the hard way after a burst pipe turned my backyard into an ice rink. Don’t be me.
Shut Down Sprinklers
Still using your sprinkler system? It’s time to drain and shut it off. Frozen water in sprinkler lines can cause cracks. Locate your system’s shut-off valve, turn it off, and drain any remaining water. Easy, right?
3. HVAC and Fireplace Readiness
Service Your HVAC System
Your heater has likely been hibernating all summer, so schedule a tune-up to make sure it’s in top shape. At the very least, change the filter and check for strange noises or smells. Pro tip: Set up biannual HVAC maintenance with a trusted local technician like John Moore Services.
Clean Your Chimney
If your home has a fireplace, it needs a little TLC. Get your chimney inspected and cleaned before lighting that first cozy fire. Creosote buildup is a fire hazard you don’t want to ignore.
4. Boost Indoor Comfort and Efficiency
Reverse Your Ceiling Fans
Did you know ceiling fans have a winter setting? Flip the switch to reverse the blades. This pushes warm air down, keeping your home toasty without cranking up the heat.
Upgrade Your Thermostat
If you’re still using a manual thermostat, it’s time to level up. A programmable or smart thermostat lets you control heating schedules, saving energy (and money). Look into models like Nest or Ecobee for a sleek, energy-efficient upgrade.
5. Get Your Home Emergency-Ready
Stock Up on Essentials
Houston’s power grid doesn’t exactly inspire confidence. We all remember trigger events like Beryl and Harvey. Keep a stash of batteries, flashlights, bottled water, and non-perishable food. A winter storm kit is a must, even if it’s just for peace of mind.
Plan for Power Outages
Portable generators can be lifesavers when the lights go out. If that’s not an option, invest in a large-capacity power bank to charge phones and small devices. Check out the American Red Cross for a full emergency checklist.
Let’s Make Your Winter Prep Hassle-Free
Ready to tackle your winter home prep? If you’re looking for more tips or need a trusted partner to guide you through homeownership, reach out to Realty Raquel. From home maintenance advice to buying and selling, I’m here to make your life easier—and your home winter-ready.
Let’s chat today and keep your home in tip-top shape all year long!
