From Fall Breezes to First Freezes: Prepping Your Home for the Seasonal Shift

​As temperatures start to drop, small home maintenance steps can make a big difference.

Learn how to prepare your home for the cooler months — from sealing drafts to protecting your pipes — and head into winter with confidence.

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🏡 Fall Is Nature’s Reminder to Get Ready
Fall in Texas can be unpredictable — one day it’s sunny and 75°, and the next morning brings a cold snap that reminds you winter isn’t far away. Whether you’re in a mild climate or somewhere that gets true freezes, the changing season is the perfect time to get your home in shape before the first cold front hits.

🌬️ 1. Seal Up Drafts and Cracks
Cooler air finds its way in fast if your home isn’t well-sealed.
Use caulk or weatherstripping to close gaps around doors, windows, and vents.

This not only keeps your home warmer but can lower heating costs by up to 10%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

Pro tip: On a windy day, run your hand along window edges to feel for drafts. If you notice airflow, it’s time for fresh seals.

🔥 2. Service Your Heating System
Before temperatures drop further, schedule a furnace or HVAC inspection. A quick tune-up ensures your system runs efficiently and safely.

Dirty filters and clogged vents can strain your unit, leading to higher bills and potential breakdowns right when you need heat most.

• Replace filters every 1–3 months.
• Check carbon monoxide detectors.
• Make sure all vents are open and unobstructed.

💧 3. Protect Outdoor Plumbing
Even in Texas, where deep freezes are rare, it only takes one cold night for unprotected pipes to burst.

Disconnect garden hoses, drain irrigation systems, and insulate outdoor faucets. For homes in northern regions, consider foam covers or heat tape for added protection.

Did you know? Burst pipes are one of the most common winter home insurance claims — and they can easily cost thousands in water damage repairs.

🍂 4. Clean Gutters and Downspouts
As leaves fall, gutters clog — and that can lead to water backing up into your roof or siding.
Clean gutters at least twice each fall to ensure proper drainage. If you live under trees, gutter guards are a worthwhile investment to prevent constant buildup.

🧰 5. Check Roofs and Chimneys
Inspect your roof for missing shingles or cracks before winter storms arrive.
If you have a fireplace, get the chimney cleaned and inspected for blockages or creosote buildup — one of the leading causes of house fires in cooler months.

🌾 6. Prep Your Yard and Outdoor Spaces
Rake leaves, trim overhanging branches, and cover patio furniture.
While fall décor looks great outdoors, remember that loose items can become projectiles in strong seasonal winds.
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Store cushions, umbrellas, and grills securely when not in use.

💡 7. Test Home Safety Systems
Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries.
Inspect fire extinguishers, flashlights, and emergency kits — just in case a cold front brings power outages.

🧤 The Bottom Line: Fall Prep Means Peace of Mind
Getting ready for the colder months doesn’t have to be overwhelming — small steps now can prevent costly repairs later.

And while most of these tasks are DIY-friendly, your homeowners insurance is your safety net for the unexpected.

At Corin Insurance Group, we help ensure you’re covered for whatever the season brings — from frozen pipes to fallen branches.
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👉 Contact us today for a quick coverage review before winter weather arrives.

Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as legal or insurance advice. Coverage varies by carrier and policy.