How to Prepare Your Texas Home for Winter Storms and Freezes

By the Mercury Team

When people think of Texas, they may picture scorching summers and mild winters. However, in recent years, there’s been an increase in severe freezes and ice storms in Texas (e.g., Winter Storm Uri in 2021), which have revealed just how vulnerable homes can be to cold weather. As many homeowners experienced firsthand, these storms can overwhelm heating systems, freeze plumbing, and leave communities without power for days.

This guide will walk you through preparing your home for winter, so you can prevent costly damage, protect your family’s safety, and stay ready for whatever the Lone Star State brings.

Why Texans Need to Prepare for Winter Weather

Texas homes are built to handle heat, not subfreezing temperatures. That makes them especially vulnerable when ice storms or sudden cold fronts roll through.

Common issues during a Texas snowstorm include:

• Frozen pipes that burst and flood homes
• Roof leaks caused by melting ice
• Extended power outages that disrupt daily life

Fortunately, a homeowners insurance policy can protect you from many of these cold-weather claims, but preventing the damage in the first place is always the best course of action.

“We’ve seen a steady rise in cold-weather claims across Texas over the last several years,” Bonnie Lee, VP, Homeowner Claims for Mercury Insurance. “Frozen pipes and roof leaks are among the most common, and most of them could be prevented with early maintenance and insulation.”

Step 1: Inspect and Winterize Your Home Exterior

The exterior of your home takes the brunt of harsh winter weather. Here’s how to winterize your home:

Seal Cracks and Openings

Cold air can easily sneak in through small gaps around doors, windows, and siding. Walk around your home and check for drafts or visible cracks, and be sure to:

• Apply weather stripping or caulk around windows and doors.
• Inspect siding and foundation for openings where air or moisture might enter.
• Consider using door sweeps to reduce heat loss.

Clean Gutters and Check the Roof

Clogged gutters are a primary cause of ice dams, which are thick ridges of ice that form at the edge of a roof. When water backs up behind an ice dam, it can seep under shingles and cause leaks.

Before the temperature drops, clear all leaves and debris from your gutters. While you’re at it, inspect the roof for any damaged or missing shingles that could become entry points for water.

Protect Outdoor Plumbing

Outdoor plumbing is extremely susceptible to a Texas freeze.

To prevent burst pipes, disconnect all garden hoses and drain them completely. Then, cover your outdoor faucets with insulated covers, which are inexpensive and easy to install. For any exposed pipes, wrap them with foam insulation to shield them from the cold.

Step 2: Prepare Your Interior for the Cold

Once the exterior is secure, it’s time to focus on the inside of your home to ensure it stays warm and functional during a winter storm.

Insulate Pipes and Walls

Pipes located in unheated areas (e.g., attics, garages, and crawl spaces) are most at risk of freezing. Use foam insulation or heat tape to protect them. You can also add extra insulation to your walls and attic to help maintain a consistent temperature throughout your home and reduce energy costs.

Keep Heat Flowing Safely

Your heating system is your home’s lifeline during a freeze, so make sure it’s ready.

• Schedule an HVAC inspection before winter arrives to have a professional check your system for any potential issues.
• Replace air filters regularly to maintain efficiency.
• Test your thermostat to confirm it’s working correctly.
• Never use an oven or outdoor grill to heat your home. These can release dangerous carbon monoxide gas.

Stock Up on Winter Essentials

Power outages are common during ice storms in Texas. Prepare an emergency kit with the following items:

• Warm blankets and extra layers of clothing
• Bottled water (at least one gallon per person, per day)
• Non-perishable food that doesn’t require cooking
• Flashlights and extra batteries
• Portable phone chargers or power banks

Step 3: Plan for Power Outages and Emergencies

Texas weather can change fast, and winter storms are no exception. Before the next cold front hits, make sure you and your family know exactly what to do if the lights go out or roads close.

Create a Family Emergency Plan

If a major freeze causes outages or makes roads unsafe, it’s important to have a plan. Here’s what you should do:

• Establish a family meeting point in case you get separated.
• Keep an emergency contact list with local friends, family, and utility providers.
• Learn how to shut off gas, water, and electricity safely if needed.

Prepare Your Vehicle

Winter storms can make roads treacherous. Make sure your vehicle is ready by:

• Checking antifreeze levels, tire pressure, and wiper fluid before temperatures drop.
• Keeping an emergency car kit with blankets, jumper cables, and food.
• Having your roadside assistance number saved in your phone in case of breakdowns or accidents.

Step 4: Understand Your Coverage Before the Storm Hits

Review Your Homeowners Insurance Policy

Most standard homeowners insurance policies cover sudden water damage from burst pipes. However, gradual leaks or lack of maintenance typically aren’t covered.

If you’re unsure about your coverage, contact your local Mercury agent to understand your level of protection. You may also want to consider adding optional coverages like Service Line Protection, which covers underground utility lines, or Home Systems Protection, which covers your critical systems, electronics, and appliances.

File Claims Quickly If Damage Occurs

If your home suffers damage after a freeze, be sure to:

• File a claim online or over the phone.
• Take photos and videos of all damage before making repairs.
• Keep receipts for emergency repairs or temporary housing.

The sooner you document the damage, the faster your claim can be processed and resolved.

Step 5: After the Storm: Stay Safe During Recovery

The danger isn't over just because the storm has passed. Be cautious as you assess the damage and begin recovery efforts.

Check for Hidden Damage

Once temperatures rise, inspect your property carefully.

• Look for roof leaks, foundation cracks, or water stains.
• Contact a licensed contractor or plumber to handle repairs safely.
• If you suspect electrical issues, don’t touch outlets or appliances until they’re inspected.

Prevent Future Damage

To better prepare for the next Texas freeze, consider:

• Installing a smart thermostat that monitors indoor temps and alerts you to extreme drops.
• Adding leak detection sensors near water heaters or under sinks.
• Scheduling an annual home inspection each fall to catch issues early.

Be Ready, Stay Protected

You can’t always predict Texas winters, but you can prepare for them. Take these steps to winterize your house, and you can protect your home, your family, and your finances.

At Mercury, we believe in being smart about insurance. Reviewing your coverage and preparing your home early are the smartest things you can do before the next winter storm arrives.

Contact us today for a fast, free quote!