Silicon Prairie at Lake Texoma

Thanksgiving week is usually filled with food, family, and football, but it is also one of the best times of the year to protect your home before winter arrives. With North Texas weather swinging from warm to freezing without warning, homeowners in Sherman, Denison, Pottsboro, and around Lake Texoma can prevent a lot of problems by handling a few simple tasks now.

Task 1: Service Your HVAC
Even mild winters can push your heater hard. A seasonal checkup helps your system run efficiently, keeps winter bills down, and prevents surprise breakdowns. Change filters, inspect ducts, and make sure your thermostat is working correctly.

Task 2: Inspect Your Roof
Windstorms and falling branches can cause minor damage that leads to leaks later. Do a visual check for missing shingles, lifted edges, or debris buildup. Around Lake Texoma, homes surrounded by trees need this especially.

Task 3: Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Leaves collect fast. Clogged gutters lead to water pooling around the foundation, wood damage, and ice blockages if temperatures drop. Clear them out and run water through the downspouts to make sure everything drains properly.

Task 4: Protect Outdoor Faucets and Pipes
Freezing pipes are a common winter issue in North Texas. Disconnect hoses, put on faucet covers, and wrap exposed pipes. This one step can prevent thousands of dollars in water damage.

Task 5: Check for Drafts Around Windows and Doors
Small gaps can make a big difference in comfort and heating costs. Check for drafts and add weatherstripping where needed.

Task 6: Prep Your Fireplace and Chimney
If you plan to use your fireplace, make sure everything is clean and safe. Have the chimney swept, clear out old ashes, and confirm the flue and damper open easily.

Task 7: Winterize Your Sprinkler System
Many homes in Grayson County have irrigation systems that need attention before freezing temperatures hit. Shut off the system, check for leaks, blow out lines if needed, and adjust timers.

Task 8: Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Holiday cooking means more activity in the kitchen. Check all alarms, replace batteries, and test the system to make sure everything works.

Task 9: Refresh Your Interior Before Guests Arrive
Thanksgiving often brings guests. This is a good time to declutter, donate unused items, organize closets, and touch up high-traffic walls. It keeps your home feeling fresh and ready for the season.

Task 10: Do a Quick Exterior Walk-Through
Take 10 minutes to scan for loose siding, wobbly fence sections, broken outdoor lights, or branches hanging low over your roof. Catching these issues now prevents bigger repairs later.

Final Thought
A little maintenance now keeps your home safe, efficient, and comfortable all winter long. It also protects your property value and helps you stay ahead of inspection issues if you plan to sell in the future. If you want a custom list tailored to your neighborhood or need help prioritizing projects with the highest return, I’m always here to help.