Houston Homeowners: Preparing for the Incoming Arctic Blast — A General Contractor’s Perspective

Next week, Houston is expected to experience a sharp Arctic blast with temperatures dipping below freezing. For a city built more for heat, humidity, and hurricanes than prolonged cold, this kind of weather isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s a real stress test for homes, especially older construction and properties with deferred maintenance.

As a general contractor working across Houston, I’ve seen firsthand how short freezes can cause long-term damage when preparation is overlooked. The good news is that most cold-weather damage is preventable if you act early and intelligently.

Why Freezing Weather Is a Big Deal in Houston

Homes in this region are not typically designed for sustained cold. Plumbing often runs through exterior walls or attics, insulation levels vary widely, and ventilation strategies prioritize heat dissipation rather than heat retention. When temperatures drop below freezing, three systems are especially vulnerable:

Plumbing is the biggest risk. Water expands as it freezes, and even a brief freeze can rupture pipes—especially PEX and older copper lines in unconditioned spaces. The damage often doesn’t show up until the thaw, when leaks suddenly appear behind walls or ceilings.

HVAC systems are also under stress. Heat pumps and furnaces work harder than usual, and neglected maintenance can lead to failures at the worst possible time. Auxiliary heat strips, if present, can spike electrical loads and expose weak panels or wiring.

Attics and roofs take a quiet beating. Poor insulation and air leaks allow warm air to escape, creating condensation that can later lead to mold, drywall damage, or warped framing once temperatures normalize.

Critical Steps to Take Before the Freeze

Start with your plumbing. Any exposed pipes—especially in attics, garages, exterior walls, or crawl spaces—should be insulated immediately. Hose bibs should be covered, irrigation systems shut off, and backflow preventers protected. On especially cold nights, letting faucets drip slightly can reduce pressure buildup and lower the risk of pipe bursts.

Check your attic. This is one of the most overlooked areas in Houston homes. Look for gaps around penetrations, recessed lights, duct chases, and attic access doors. Sealing these openings helps retain heat and prevents warm, moist air from condensing on cold surfaces. Adequate insulation depth matters more than people realize; thin or disturbed insulation is a red flag.

Inspect doors and windows. Cold air infiltration doesn’t just make your home uncomfortable—it forces HVAC systems to work harder and increases the chance of frozen interior pipes near exterior walls. Weatherstripping is cheap insurance.

Prepare your HVAC system. Replace filters, confirm the system cycles properly, and make sure emergency heat functions if you have a heat pump. If your unit has struggled in the past, this is the moment to address it, not after temperatures drop.

Don’t forget the exterior. Secure loose siding, soffits, and fascia. Cold snaps combined with wind can exploit small weaknesses, allowing moisture intrusion that becomes visible weeks later.

For Property Owners and Investors

Multi-family properties, rentals, and vacant homes require extra attention. Vacant units should never have water fully shut off without proper winterization. A frozen, unmonitored pipe can cause catastrophic damage before anyone notices. Smart leak detectors and remote temperature sensors are becoming standard tools for risk mitigation and are worth serious consideration.

After the Freeze: What to Watch For

Once temperatures rise, walk your property carefully. Look for water stains, bubbling paint, musty odors, or unexplained drops in water pressure. These are often early indicators of freeze-related damage. Addressing them quickly can mean the difference between a small repair and a major restoration.

Final Thought

Houston doesn’t get many freezes, which is exactly why they cause so much damage when they arrive. Preparation isn’t about panic—it’s about understanding how your home behaves under stress and taking practical steps to protect it.

Cold weather may be temporary, but the damage from ignoring it can linger for years. A little foresight now saves a lot of repair later.

Aubin C. Ntela, MBA

📞 832-756-7203

🌐 www.armantel.net

📩 info@armantel.net

Armantel, LLC

Reliable. Transparent. Built to Last.