Texas Homeowner Survival Guide: Plan Ahead for Water, Roof & Window Risks
Texas weather moves fast, and small issues can snowball into $5,000+ repairs. While hail, wind, and heavy rains are obvious threats, proactive maintenance can save your home—and your budget—before disaster strikes.
The short version
- Small problems become big bills. Leaks, roof damage, and water intrusion around windows/doors are the top unexpected repair costs in Texas.
- Document and prepare. Photos, inspection reports, and maintenance records protect your home and insurance claims.
- Prioritize prevention. Drainage, sealing, and hardening vulnerable areas reduce emergency repairs and increase your home’s resilience.
Preventive steps for Texas homeowners
1. Water damage
- Ballpark cost: ~$3,800 per typical water-damage claim.
- Quick wins: Label main shutoff valves, install leak sensors near sinks, water heaters, and washers.
- Action: Dry leaks within 24–48 hours; photograph for insurance.
- Pro tip: A $15 water alarm under your sink can prevent drywall and floor damage.
2. Roof protection
- Ballpark cost: $5,800–$13,200 for a full roof replacement.
- Texas-smart upgrades: Impact-resistant shingles (UL 2218 Class 4) and FORTIFIED Roof practices.
- After a storm: Walk the perimeter, photograph damage, check flashing and vents, and schedule a professional inspection.
- Pro tip: Ask contractors about IBHS hail ratings to qualify for insurance credits and supplements.
3. Windows & doors
- Ballpark cost: ~$300–$2,500 per unit depending on frame and installation.
- Seal the envelope: Caulk stationary gaps, add weatherstripping, check threshold flashing.
- Fight wind-driven rain: Proper flashing, barrier wraps, and door sweeps keep water out and A/C in.
- Coastal/TWIA counties: Ensure WPI-8/WPI-8E inspections if replacing roofs, windows, or doors to maintain windstorm coverage.
Insurance reality check
- Standard homeowners policies usually do not cover flood damage—separate coverage is required (NFIP or private).
- Consider excess/private options if your dwelling’s value exceeds NFIP caps ($250k building, $100k contents).
Quick Texas homeowner checklist
- Clean gutters and add downspout extensions; ensure water drains away from the slab.
- Re-caulk one drafty window and add a door sweep this weekend.
- Take date-stamped roof and attic photos as a pre-storm baseline.
- Price out upgrades: impact-resistant shingles, sealed roof deck, and leak sensors with auto-shutoff.
- Coastal homes: confirm WPI-8/WPI-8E requirements before project start.
Make maintenance easy with TradeCrews
Property Journal (TradeCrews): Store inspection photos, estimates, invoices, and receipts in one organized place. Keep your records ready for insurance, contractors, or future maintenance.
Jack Report™: Jack reviews your Journal, flags missing documentation, and tracks potential repair risks—so you know what to address before storm season.
✅ Bottom line: In Texas, the cheapest repair is the one you prevent. Harden your roof, seal your envelope, and monitor water risks. When ready, book licensed roofers, window/door installers, or remediation specialists through TradeCrews.com
and stay ahead of the next big storm.
and stay ahead of the next big storm.