Houston Winterization Checklist

Houston Winterization Checklist ~ Cold Weather Prep

1. Protect Pipes & Water Lines

• Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas (garage, attic, crawl spaces) with pipe insulation.
• Disconnect garden hoses and drain them; shut off outdoor water supply (if present).
• Consider insulation covers for outdoor spigots.
• If temps are dangerously low, opening cabinet doors under sinks lets warm air circulate around plumbing.
• Know where your main water shut-off valve is in case of a burst pipe emergency.

Supplies to pick up: pipe insulation foam, faucet covers, hose bib covers, plumber’s tape.

2. Seal Air Leaks & Drafts

• Check doors and windows for drafts — use caulk or weatherstripping to seal gaps.
• Install door sweeps at the base of exterior doors.

Supplies to pick up: weatherstripping, door sweeps, caulk & caulk gun.

3. HVAC & Heating Safety

• Change HVAC filter, and if you haven’t serviced the system recently, consider a quick professional check.
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors with fresh batteries — winter heating increases CO risk.

Supplies to pick up: HVAC filters, detector batteries.

4. Gutters & Roof

• Clean gutters of leaves/debris so melting frost or heavy rain drains properly.
• Check for loose shingles or weak spots that cold winds could worsen.

Supplies to pick up: ladder (if you don’t have one), gutter scoop or gloves.

5. Emergency Preparedness

• Stock essentials — bottled water, non-perishable food, flashlights, extra batteries.
• Portable space heaters (used safely) or warm blankets if power outages occur.
• Keep important phone numbers handy (plumber, electrician, utility support).

6. Plants & Outdoor Items

• Bring potted plants indoors to avoid frost damage.
• Store hoses and sprinkler components indoors.

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Where to Get Winterization Supplies (Houston Areas)

Home Improvement & Supplies (big box + varieties):

• Lowe’s Home Improvement – Weatherstripping, insulation, detectors, HVAC supplies
• The Home Depot – Insulation, plumbing supplies, HVAC filters
• Amazon – Type in “winter weather house prep” for a full list of helpful items

Pro Help :

• Let me know if you need a Handyman or plumbing help if you hit a snag.

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Quick Tips

• Houston’s water system doesn’t always require dripping faucets, but it does require careful insulation of pipes since low temps can still freeze them.
• Act early in the day before temps drop, so supplies aren’t sold out and tasks aren’t rushed.