As Austin braces for cold snaps, homeowners are urged to take preventive measures now to guard against damage and higher utility bills.
While winters here tend to be mild, experts warn that severe freezes, such as Winter Storm Uri, can hit unexpectedly, catching residents unprepared.
Inspect and maintain your home’s shell
Start with the exterior: trim branches hanging over the roof and clear gutters to prevent ice dams or blockages. Examine your roof for damaged or missing shingles, and make repairs as needed to prevent leaks.
As James Kuntz, founder of Tarrytown Roofing, reminds homeowners, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”— especially when winter storms send branches crashing down. Have a trusted roofer ready before you need one, not after. Seal cracks or gaps around windows, doors, and siding to keep the cold out.
Protect plumbing and heating systems
Insulate water pipes and lines in unheated areas such as attics, garages, or crawl spaces. Drain exterior faucets, detach hoses, and insulate to avoid freezing. Turn off and drain irrigation and sprinkler systems. When freezing weather arrives, open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air circulate, and consider letting a faucet drip slowly to relieve pressure and prevent pipes from freezing.
Know your water shutoff and emergency steps
Locate the home’s main shutoff valve so it can be accessed in a crisis. In Austin’s utility service area, the shutoff is often on the homeowner’s side of the water meter, inside the meter box. If a freeze causes blocked or broken pipes, thaw slowly — using warm (not boiling) water or gentle heat — and never use open flames.
Set a safer temperature and plan for travel
If leaving town during cold spells, shut off the water at the meter and set the interior thermostat to at least 65°F to prevent freezing. During extended outages, Austin Water advises stopping faucet drips and turning off water until the supply is restored.
By taking these simple precautions now, Austin homeowners can reduce the risk of costly damage, water loss, and dangerous conditions when cold weather arrives, and enjoy greater peace of mind knowing their home is protected and prepared for whatever winter brings.