Texas is known for blazing summers, but when a winter storm hits, it can turn everything upside down. Homeowners in Plano, McKinney, Allen, Celina, Prosper, and throughout the DFW area have seen firsthand how fast a hard freeze can overwhelm homes built for heat, not ice.
At The Sterling Insurance Group, we’ve handled plenty of winter-related claims—from burst pipes to roof leaks—and we’ve also seen how a little prep work can prevent thousands of dollars in damage. This guide walks you through practical steps to winter-proof your home before the next cold snap.
Why Winter Proofing Is a Big Deal in North Texas
Unlike Minnesota or Colorado, most Texas homes aren’t designed for long freezes. Builders in the Dallas suburbs focused on cooling, not heating, which often means:
- Exposed pipes in garages and attics
- Thin insulation in walls and ceilings
- HVAC systems that strain below freezing
That’s why Winter Storm Uri in 2021 caused more than $10 billion in insured damage across Texas. Burst pipes, widespread outages, and roof claims topped the list. A few hours of preparation now can save weeks of stress later.
Step 1: Protect Your Pipes
Frozen pipes are the number one culprit behind winter claims in North Texas. Here’s how to stay ahead of them:
- Cover outdoor faucets with foam protectors
- Wrap pipes in unheated spaces with insulation sleeves
- Leave cabinet doors open under sinks so warm air circulates
- Let faucets drip during freezing nights
- Locate your main water shut-off valve and make sure your family knows how to use it
Pro tip: Take a quick photo of your shut-off valve—it’s easier to find under pressure if you’ve seen it before.
Step 2: Seal Leaks and Insulate Smarter
Drafts not only chill your home, they drive up energy costs. Easy DIY fixes include:
- Weather stripping on doors and windows
- Door sweeps or draft stoppers
- Plastic film insulation kits for older windows
- Caulking around vents, outlets, and baseboards
Bigger upgrades to consider:
- Adding attic insulation (especially in homes built before 2000)
- Insulating the garage if bedrooms share a wall or ceiling with it
Step 3: Check Your HVAC Before the Freeze
Your heating system shouldn’t be a mystery until the first icy morning. Before temperatures drop:
- Change filters
- Schedule a professional tune-up
- Make sure vents and returns are open and clear
- Test your thermostat for accuracy
If you rely on space heaters:
- Keep them at least 3 feet away from flammables
- Plug directly into the wall (no extension cords)
- Turn them off when you leave or sleep
Step 4: Be Ready for Power Outages
In North Texas, ice storms and outages often go hand in hand. A simple kit makes life much easier:
- Battery lanterns and flashlights
- Extra blankets and sleeping bags
- Phone chargers and power banks
- Bottled water and shelf-stable food
- First-aid kit and manual can opener
If your budget allows, look into a generator or battery-powered space heater approved for indoor use.
Step 5: Maintain Roofs, Gutters, and Trees
Many costly claims start outside the house. Stay proactive:
Roof: Inspect for loose shingles, sagging, or leaks.
Gutters: Clean before the first freeze; confirm downspouts move water away from your foundation.
Trees: Trim back branches over your roof, cars, and power lines. Ice can snap heavy limbs in seconds.
Step 6: Review Your Home Insurance
Even with solid prep, accidents happen. Now is the time to confirm your coverage includes:
- Burst pipe and water damage
- Loss of use (hotel stays if your home is unlivable)
- Roof replacement cost vs. cash value
- Equipment breakdown for HVAC or water heaters
- Adequate personal property and dwelling limits
At The Sterling Insurance Group, we walk Dallas-area families through what’s included, what’s excluded, and what deductibles to expect in a winter claim.
Step 7: Bonus Safety Tips
- Smart thermostats: Set to at least 55°F when away; many models send freeze alerts to your phone.
- Neighbors: Team up to check on each other, especially elderly or at-risk households.
- Documentation: Photograph pipe insulation, valuables, and upgrades. Keep receipts—some insurers offer credits for improvements.
Final Thoughts: Protect Your Dallas-Area Home Before the Freeze
Winter in North Texas is unpredictable. Most years are mild, but one deep freeze can cause weeks of disruption if you aren’t ready. By winterizing now, you protect your investment, your comfort, and your peace of mind.
Local Call-to-Action
At The Sterling Insurance Group, we help homeowners in Plano, McKinney, Allen, Celina, Prosper, and Richardson prepare for winter with coverage that makes sense for Texas weather.
Call The Sterling Insurance Group today.
Phone:(972) 964-4825
Email: info@sterlinginsnow.com
Website: www.sterlinginsnow.com
Let’s make sure your home and your family are ready before the next freeze.