We know how to two-step in Texas, even when it comes to our thermostat. Heat on during the evening and often turning on the cooler air during the day. You may have your seat-warmer in your vehicle cranked up on your morning commute only to quickly switch on "Max A/C" on the drive home.
Everything is bigger in Texas, even the gap marking the extreme duality of our weather in a given day. Welcome to Texas fall, ya'll.
You may see freezing pipes one day and think the trees are going to blossom 5 months early the next. The weather this time of year is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you're going to get.
So how do you run with preparing your home for the colder weather when it comes, Forrest?
Start at the Bottom
Now is a good time to survey your yard and look for opportunities to prune and prepare trees and shrubs for future growth. You want to make certain tree limbs are trimmed back from power lines, roof lines and basically won't cause an issue if they crack and fall to the ground due to wind or weight of ice and snow.
For those Texans who are unfamiliar, snow is that white powdery substance Texas has been known to get every few years without having to drive to Colorado.
Since outdoor fireplaces, grills, fryers and smokers are used quite often during this time of year, it's always a good idea to clear out leaves and other brush to prevent fire hazards and to discourage critters and snakes from burrowing during the colder weather.
Make certain to put covers over your outdoor faucets to protect your pipes during those hard freezes.
Don't Forget the Middle
Whether heat or cold, one rule for homeowners in Texas, don't let the weather that is outside get inside.
The Texas wind can blow cold and bitter and you don't want to lose heat in your home because of poor weather stripping and caulking. It's a good time to consider repairing and replacing.
While you are inspecting, check and replace the filter in your heating system if necessary to make certain you have the heat you want when you need it.
Work Your Way to the Top
Your fireplace is one of the best things about colder weather. It's also one of the greatest risks to your home. If gas or wood-burning or a hybrid, make sure your fireplace is in good working order and sealed.
Have your chimney inspected, cleaned and cleared of debris before using. While on the cleaning kick, make sure gutters and downspouts are also clear of leaves, twigs and anything else that would prevent proper flow or cause pooling.
When it gets cold, critters are going to want to get in your attic. Make certain attic vents and screens are in working order and able to fend off the will of rodents fighting for survival.
It may be 70 degrees today and the colder weather of this week is a distant memory. But as you've seen, the weather can change on a dime. Prepare your home well by taking care of it so it can take care of you.
Speaking of preparing and taking care, Insurance For Texans exists to do just that by providing options to great insurance in the areas of home, business, auto, health and life. If you are currently looking for insurance or want to know how an independent insurance broker can match you with better options, let's talk.
Keep two-stepping Texas.
