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Winter Weather Safety Tips for Homeowners in Universal City and St. Hedwig | SERVPRO of Universal City/St. Hedwig
1/7/2025 (Permalink)
Prepare your home for winter with these essential tips to prevent damage from freezing pipes, ice storms, and power outages.
Winter in Universal City and St. Hedwig may not bring the extreme cold of other regions, but it’s still a season that requires homeowners to be prepared for occasional cold snaps, ice storms, and unpredictable weather.
While freezing temperatures aren’t as common, they can still cause significant damage to homes if proper precautions aren’t taken. SERVPRO of Universal City/St. Hedwig is here to offer essential winter weather safety tips to help protect your home and keep your family safe during the colder months.
Though winter in Universal City and St. Hedwig typically brings milder conditions, the occasional cold snap can cause pipes to freeze, especially in uninsulated areas such as attics, garages, or crawl spaces. Frozen pipes are one of the most common causes of water damage during the winter months. When water inside the pipes freezes, it can cause them to burst, leading to major leaks and flooding.
To avoid this, insulate exposed pipes with foam or heat tape. It’s also a good idea to leave faucets slightly open during extremely cold nights to keep the water moving. If you have an outdoor irrigation system, drain it thoroughly before winter arrives. Should you experience frozen pipes or a burst pipe, SERVPRO of Universal City/St. Hedwig is ready to assist with water damage cleanup and restoration.
Even though snow isn’t a regular concern in Universal City and St. Hedwig, winter storms can bring ice, heavy rain, and wind, all of which can damage your roof and gutters. Ice dams, which form when snow melts and refreezes at the edge of the roof, can block drainage and cause leaks inside your home. Before the winter season starts, check your roof for damaged or missing shingles and inspect flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights.
Clean out your gutters and downspouts to ensure water flows freely and doesn’t back up on the roof. Clogged gutters can contribute to ice dams, which could cause water to seep into your home. If your roof sustains damage from winter weather, SERVPRO of Universal City/St. Hedwig is here to help with repairs and water damage restoration.
Winter storms in Universal City and St. Hedwig can sometimes bring power outages, particularly when ice and strong winds impact the electrical grid. While power outages are less frequent in South Texas, it’s always wise to be prepared. Without power, you may be left without heat, which can be a serious issue during cold spells.
Ensure your heating system is functioning properly before winter weather sets in. Consider having a backup heating source like space heaters (used safely and never left unattended) or a generator. It’s also a good idea to keep an emergency kit with flashlights, extra batteries, bottled water, and non-perishable food on hand. If your home experiences water damage due to a power outage or winter storm, SERVPRO of Universal City/St. Hedwig can help with swift restoration services to get your home back to normal.
Winter in Universal City and St. Hedwig may not be as harsh as in other parts of the country, but it’s still important to be prepared for the occasional cold front, ice storm, or freeze. By protecting your pipes, maintaining your roof, and preparing for power outages, you can help protect your home from the risks of winter weather. If you do experience water damage or other issues this winter, SERVPRO of Universal City/St. Hedwig is here to provide fast, professional restoration services.
Contact us today to ensure your home is ready for whatever the winter season may bring.