Winter Storm Preparedness for Houston Homeowners

Houston isn’t known for harsh winters, but next week, we’re expecting a winter storm with snow and freezing temperatures on Tuesday and Wednesday. With our city not fully winterized, it’s essential to prepare your home and family. Here’s how:

Protect the Exterior

Winter storms can bring freezing rain, snow, and ice. Protect your home’s exterior with these tips:

• Cover outdoor faucets: Use foam covers or wrap them with towels and plastic to prevent pipes from freezing.

• Drain irrigation systems: Turn off sprinkler systems and release any remaining water.

• Protect plants: Cover delicate plants with tarps or bring potted plants indoors.

  Check gutters and roofs: Clear them of debris to prevent ice buildup and leaks.

Prep the Inside

Cold weather can disrupt your routine. Be ready with:

• Insulate exposed pipes: Use foam pipe insulation or even towels and duct tape as a temporary fix.

• Maintain a safe temperature: Keep your thermostat above 55°F, even if you’re away, to prevent pipes from freezing.

• Have alternative heat sources: Stock up on space heaters, blankets, and extra layers of clothing.

• Protect against power outages: Charge devices in advance and have flashlights with spare batteries.

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Emergency Supplies Checklist

Winter storms can lead to icy roads and limited access to stores. Keep these essentials on hand:

• Bottled water (1 gallon per person per day)

• Non-perishable food for 3 days

• First aid kit

• Warm clothing and blankets

• Battery-powered radio

• Salt or sand for walkways

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Stay Safe on the Roads

If you need to travel, drive carefully on icy roads. Better yet, avoid travel unless absolutely necessary. Remember: bridges and overpasses freeze first!

Post-Storm Maintenance

Once the storm passes:

• Check for frozen or burst pipes. Slowly thaw frozen pipes using warm (not hot) water or a space heater.

• Inspect your roof and gutters for ice damage.

• Remove snow or ice buildup around doors and windows to prevent leaks.

Conclusion

Winter storms in Houston are rare but not impossible. Taking a few simple steps now can help protect your home, your family, and your peace of mind. If you have any questions about preparing your home for extreme weather or how winter-ready features can add value to your property, I’m here to help. Stay warm and safe, Houston!