Brace Your Space: 8 Tips For Winterizing Your Texas Home
As the Lone Star State welcomes the winter months, prepping your home becomes an important part of comfort. While Texas winters aren't as bad compared to northern states, occasional cold snaps can be harsh.
Recently, I was working on getting some things around the house ready for the brutally cold weather. An article from Forbes caught my eye. It helped me put together a quick checklist that I'm going to use this year. Look at these simple things you can do to help your home stay cozy and save on energy costs.
BRACE YOUR SPACE: 8 TIPS FOR WINTERIZING YOUR TEXAS HOME
Inspect and Clean Gutters
Remove leaves and other debris from your gutters. Clogged gutters can lead to water damage when it rains or ices over.
Seal Windows and Doors
Check for drafts around windows and doors. That cold air can be brutal. Use weather stripping or caulk to seal any spaces, keeping the warm air in.
Insulate Pipes
To prevent freezing, insulate exposed pipes, especially those on exterior walls or in unheated areas like garages.
Check Your Heating System
It's a good idea to have a professional inspect and service your heating system. Replace filters for smoother operation and better indoor air quality too.
Reverse Ceiling Fans
Try switching your ceiling fans to rotate clockwise at a low speed. This pushes warm air down, helping to distribute heat more evenly.
Add Insulation
Consider adding extra insulation to your attic. This helps maintain consistent temperatures, reducing the amount of strain on your heating system.
Prepare an Emergency Kit
Texas weather can be unpredictable. Keep an emergency kit with blankets, flashlights, batteries, and a portable charger.
Protect Outdoor Plumbing
Cover outdoor faucets and sprinkler systems to prevent freezing and bursting pipes.
By giving these simple steps a try, you can make sure your home is ready for whatever winter brings in Texas. Protecting your home from the elements is not just about comfort, it's about safety and efficiency too. Here's to a cozy home this year.
How to Prepare for a Texas Winter
Gallery Credit: Lori Crofford