Texas Weather Has It All — Part 2 of a 3-Part Series

If you've lived in Texas very long, you know the weather can change quickly. A sunny morning can turn into a severe storm warning by afternoon, and sometimes the damage left behind can surprise even longtime homeowners.

Over the years, I've experienced droughts, tornadoes, hurricanes, flooding, hailstorms, and even a frozen pipe while living in Colorado. Each experience has taught me something new about being prepared and protecting one of our biggest investments—our homes.

The truth is, we can't control the weather.

But we can take steps today that may help reduce damage tomorrow.

Hail: When the Sky Starts Throwing Ice

Hailstorms are one of those Texas weather events that can arrive quickly and leave homeowners wondering, "How bad was it?"

One hailstorm still stands out in my memory. My car was parked in one part of town, and my husband's vehicle was parked somewhere else. Same storm. Same city.

My car took a beating.

His vehicle didn't have a single scratch.

That experience was a great reminder of just how unpredictable storms can be. Sometimes damage comes down to timing, location, and a little bit of luck.

After a major hailstorm, homeowners should consider:

  • Checking your roof for visible damage.
  • Having your roof inspected if hail was significant.
  • Taking photos of your home and property before storm season.
  • Keeping records of repairs and maintenance.
  • Checking your insurance coverage so you understand your deductible and what is covered.

Even small damage can become a bigger problem if it goes unnoticed. A missing shingle or small roof impact may not seem urgent today, but water intrusion later can create much larger issues.

Wind and Tornadoes: Preparing Before the Warning

Tornadoes and high winds are another reminder that preparation needs to happen before the storm arrives.

A few simple steps can make a difference:

  • Trim trees and remove dead branches near your home.
  • Secure patio furniture, decorations, and other outdoor items before severe weather.
  • Know the safest place in your home during severe weather.
  • Keep flashlights, batteries, and emergency supplies easy to find.
  • Have a plan for pets and family members.

You may never need to use your emergency plan—but if severe weather hits, you will be thankful you already have one.

Drought: Why Texans Water More Than Just Their Plants

One thing I learned after living in Texas is that drought affects more than just your lawn.

Many people are surprised when they hear homeowners talk about watering their foundation, but it is something many Texans pay attention to during dry conditions.

Texas soil, especially areas with clay soil, can expand and contract as moisture levels change. During extended dry periods, homeowners should pay attention to the area around their foundation.

Helpful tips include:

  • Maintain consistent moisture around your foundation.
  • Follow local watering guidelines.
  • Watch for new cracks or changes around your home.
  • Keep trees and large shrubs maintained since roots can affect soil conditions.

Taking care of your home is about more than making it look good—it is about protecting the structure itself.

Flooding: Preparation Starts Before the Rain Falls

Flooding can happen quickly, especially after heavy storms.

While you can't control how much rain falls, you can help your home handle water more effectively.

Consider:

  • Keeping gutters clean.
  • Making sure downspouts direct water away from your home.
  • Watching areas where water tends to collect.
  • Understanding your property's drainage.
  • Knowing whether flood insurance may be appropriate for your situation.

Water always looks for the easiest path. Helping guide it away from your home can prevent unnecessary damage.

Winter Weather: A Reminder That Preparation Matters Year-Round

Although this series focuses heavily on Texas weather, preparation isn't only about summer storms.

The only weather-related damage I've personally had to my home happened while living in Colorado when a pipe froze and burst during cold weather.

That experience taught me that every season brings its own challenges.

Weather preparation is really about knowing your home, understanding potential risks, and taking action before you need to.

A Simple Storm Preparation Checklist

Before the next severe weather event, take a few minutes to:

✓ Review your insurance coverage
✓ Photograph your home and belongings
✓ Check your roof and gutters
✓ Trim trees and remove damaged branches
✓ Prepare emergency supplies
✓ Know where important documents are stored
✓ Create a family emergency plan

Small steps today can help prevent bigger headaches later.

Preparation Protects More Than Your Home

After experiencing so many different types of weather, one thing has become clear to me:

You can't stop a storm from coming.

But you can be prepared for what happens next.

Your home is more than an investment. It is where your family gathers, where memories are made, and where life happens. Taking care of it before the storm arrives is one of the best things you can do.

In Part 3 of "Texas Weather Has It All," we'll talk about how weather impacts real estate decisions—what buyers should ask, what sellers should know, and why understanding a home's history matters.

Because when it comes to Texas weather...

Hope for sunshine, but always be prepared for the next storm.

For all your real estate needs, Get Jacque!
Jacque Swanner
INC Realty
Serving Montgomery, Lake Conroe, DFW & Beyond

#GetJacque #INCrealty #SayYesToTexas #TexasRealEstate #TexasWeather #TexasHomeowner #LakeConroe #MontgomeryTX