(Beyond Milk & Bread)

If you’ve lived in Texas for any amount of time, you know the routine.

The forecast mentions snow or ice and suddenly the grocery stores are out of milk, bread, snacks… and common sense.

And while it’s true that most Texans only see snow or ice a few days every five years, when it does happen—especially in larger cities—the combination of:

  • elevated highways

  • no snow chains

  • limited road treatment

  • and lots of ice

can turn things messy very quickly.

The good news? A little preparation at home goes a long way.

Once you’ve stocked the basics, here are practical things you can do to get your home winter-storm ready in Texas.

🏠 1. Protect Your Pipes (This One Matters Most)

Frozen pipes are one of the most common — and expensive — winter issues in Texas homes.

What to do:

  • Wrap exposed pipes (garage, exterior walls, outdoor faucets)

  • Disconnect hoses and cover outdoor spigots

  • Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate

  • Let faucets drip slightly during extreme cold

If your home has plumbing on exterior walls, this step is not optional.

🔥 2. Know Your Heat Source (and Backup)

Texas homes aren’t built for extended cold, so heating systems can get pushed hard.

Check now:

  • Change HVAC filters

  • Make sure you know how to relight a pilot light if applicable

  • Have at least one safe backup heat option (fireplace, generator, or extra blankets)

⚠️ Never use outdoor grills or propane heaters inside.

💡 3. Prepare for Power Outages

Winter storms in Texas often mean short-term power outages, not weeks — but even a few hours can be uncomfortable.

Have on hand:

  • Flashlights and extra batteries

  • Phone charging blocks

  • Candles (used carefully)

  • A plan for refrigerated food if power goes out

Pro tip: Freeze a cup of water ahead of time. If it’s still frozen solid when power returns, your freezer likely stayed cold enough.

🚗 4. Stay Put If You Can

Texans are great drivers — but ice doesn’t care.

When roads ice over:

  • Elevated highways and bridges freeze first

  • Snow chains are rare

  • Road treatment can lag behind conditions

If you can stay home, do it. Most winter storms pass quickly, and waiting it out is often the safest move.

🧺 5. Bring the Outside In

Before temperatures drop:

  • Bring pets inside

  • Move potted plants into a garage or covered area

  • Secure outdoor furniture and décor

Texas weather is unpredictable — and wind often joins the party.

📝 6. Know Your Home (This Is a Real Estate Tip)

Every home handles cold differently.

Ask yourself:

  • Where are my shut-off valves?

  • Which rooms get coldest?

  • Have I had plumbing or insulation issues before?

If you’re new to your home, winter weather is a great reminder to really learn it.

Final Thoughts

Texas winters may be short, but when they hit, they can be disruptive — especially in cities built for heat, not ice.

A little preparation protects your home, your budget, and your peace of mind.

And if winter weather has you thinking about insulation, energy efficiency, or whether your current home really fits your lifestyle long-term, that’s a conversation worth having — even if it doesn’t lead to a move right now.

For all your real estate needs, get Jacque!
Serving Montgomery, Lake Conroe, DFW & beyond.