Winter Is Coming… For About Four Days 😅

And San Antonio Is About to Have Its Annual “Week-Long Winter”

If you’re new to San Antonio, welcome — this is the part where locals remind you that winter technically exists here, just not for very long.

Every year, South Texas experiences what can only be described as:

• Four long, dramatic days of cold

• Panic runs on bottled water

• A sudden shortage of pipe insulation

• And at least one neighbor who insists, “I’ve lived here 30 years — we’ll be fine”

Until we’re not.

Whether you’re a homeowner, seller, buyer, or investor, winter freeze preparation is not optional. One hard freeze can cause:

• Burst pipes

• Flooded homes

• Insurance claims

• Lost property value

• And preventable stress

This guide breaks down exactly how to prepare your home, protect your investment, and avoid becoming that house on the block.

Why Winter Prep Matters for San Antonio Real Estate

San Antonio homes are not built like homes in Chicago or Denver.

That’s not a flaw — it’s reality.

Most homes here:

• Have exposed exterior plumbing

• Lack deep pipe insulation

• Aren’t designed for prolonged freezing temps

Which means even one freeze can cause serious damage.

From a real estate standpoint:

• Winter damage can delay closings

• Lower appraisal values

• Trigger insurance red flags

• Create negotiation leverage for buyers

Smart homeowners protect both their comfort and their equity.

Start With the Basics: Heating System Check

Before temperatures drop, make sure your heating system is ready to do its job.

✔ What to Do:

• Schedule a professional inspection for your furnace or heat pump

• Replace air filters for better airflow and efficiency

• Ensure vents are clear of dust, pet hair, and obstructions

💡 Real estate tip: A properly functioning HVAC system is one of the first things inspectors and buyers look for.

Seal the Gaps: Stop Cold Air Before It Starts

Cold air finds weaknesses fast.

✔ Inspect:

• Doors and windows for drafts

• Weatherstripping and caulking

• Utility and plumbing entry points

Seal gaps with:

• Weatherstripping

• Exterior caulk

• Expanding foam where needed

This improves:

• Comfort

• Energy efficiency

• Utility bills

• Home resale appeal

Pipes: The #1 Winter Enemy in San Antonio

Let’s be blunt — pipes are the biggest risk during a freeze.

✔ Pipe Protection Checklist:

• Insulate exposed pipes and outdoor faucets

• Wrap with foam covers or towels

• Disconnect and drain garden hoses

• Turn off outdoor water supply

✔ During the Freeze:

• Let indoor faucets drip slightly

• Open cabinet doors under sinks

• Know where your main shut-off valve is

One burst pipe can cause tens of thousands of dollars in damage — and most are preventable.

Outdoor Faucets & Sprinkler Systems

If you have an irrigation system:

• Drain it

• Shut it down

• Schedule a winterization if needed

Outdoor faucets should always be:

• Covered with foam insulators

• Fully drained

This step alone prevents many emergency plumber calls every winter.

Roof, Gutters & Trees: Don’t Skip the Exterior

Winter rain + debris = water damage.

✔ Inspect:

• Gutters for leaves and blockages

• Shingles for cracks or missing sections

• Tree branches that could fall in storms

Trim trees and shrubs before the freeze hits.

Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Cold weather = more heater use.

✔ Check:

• Smoke detectors

• Carbon monoxide detectors

• Replace batteries

• Test alarms

This is about safety — and compliance if you’re selling or renting.

Outdoor Lighting & Safety

Shorter daylight hours mean:

• Reduced visibility

• Higher slip and trip risks

Make sure exterior lights are:

• Working

• Bright

• Positioned near walkways and entrances

Emergency Kit: Because Texas Weather Is… Texas Weather

Have a basic emergency kit ready:

• Bottled water

• Non-perishable food

• Flashlight & batteries

• Blankets

• Portable phone chargers

If you rely on electric heat, consider a backup plan.

Insulation = Comfort + Savings

Check:

• Attic insulation

• Wall insulation

• Garage insulation

Better insulation:

• Keeps homes warmer

• Reduces energy bills

• Improves resale appeal

Energy-Saving Programs You Might Be Missing

Many utility providers offer:

• Rebates

• Energy audits

• Efficiency incentives

Check with your provider before winter — it can save money now and boost long-term value.

The 4 Ps of Winter Storm Prep (Texas Edition)

If you remember nothing else, remember the 4 Ps:

1️⃣ People

• Check on elderly neighbors

• Make sure kids and vulnerable family members are warm

• Stay indoors when possible

• Keep blankets and emergency supplies ready

Community matters — especially during cold snaps.

2️⃣ Pets

• Bring pets inside

• Provide warm bedding

• Ensure food and water supply

Leaving pets outside during freezes is unsafe — and often illegal.

3️⃣ Pipes

• Insulate exposed pipes

• Drip faucets

• Open cabinets

• Know your shut-off valve

Most freeze damage happens here.

4️⃣ Plants

• Bring potted plants indoors

• Cover sensitive outdoor plants

• Add mulch around trees and shrubs

A little prep saves your landscaping investment.

Why This Matters When Buying or Selling a Home

From a real estate perspective:

• Winter damage shows up on inspections

• Deferred maintenance lowers offers

• Prepared homes sell faster — even in winter

Buyers notice preparedness. Appraisers do too.

San Antonio Homes Need Local Knowledge

What works in Dallas or Austin doesn’t always apply here.

That’s why local expertise matters — especially when protecting your home and its value during seasonal risks.

Final Takeaway: Four Days of Cold Can Cost Years of Equity

San Antonio winters may be short — but their impact doesn’t have to be expensive.

A little preparation:

• Prevents damage

• Preserves value

• Protects families, pets, and property

And that’s always worth it.

Thinking About Buying, Selling, or Protecting Your Investment?

At Garza Home Team at Keller Williams City View, Rosa and I do not just help people buy and sell homes — we help them protect their equity year-round.

Whether you’re:

• Preparing to list

• Buying during winter

• Unsure how seasonal maintenance affects value

👉 Let’s talk before the freeze hits.