Texas Freeze Protection Guide

Texas Freeze Protection Guide

When temperatures are forecasted to remain below freezing for several days, preparation is essential. This guide outlines clear, practical steps Texas homeowners can take to protect their homes, landscapes, and pets from costly and preventable damage.

Before the Freeze: Plan and Prepare

Monitor local weather forecasts and freeze warnings.
Locate your main water shutoff valve and test it.
Gather supplies: faucet covers, insulation, mulch, pet bedding, and non-perishable food.
Set your thermostat to maintain consistent indoor temperatures.

Protecting Your Home

Plumbing & Water Systems

Insulate outdoor faucets, exposed pipes, and irrigation backflow preventers.
Disconnect and drain garden hoses.
Allow indoor faucets to drip slowly during extended freezes.
Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air circulation.

Heating & Power

Service your heating system before severe cold arrives.
Use space heaters safely and never leave them unattended.
Prepare for outages with flashlights, batteries, and charged devices.
Close garage doors to reduce cold air infiltration.

Exterior & Structure

Seal cracks around doors and windows with weather stripping.
Cover foundation vents if recommended for your home type.
Remove snow or ice buildup from entryways to prevent damage and injury.

Protecting Your Landscape

Plants & Lawns

Water plants thoroughly before a freeze to insulate roots.
Cover sensitive plants with frost cloth, burlap, or breathable fabric.
Apply mulch around the base of plants to retain soil warmth.
Avoid pruning before or during freezing weather.

Irrigation Systems

Shut off and drain sprinkler systems if possible.
Insulate exposed valves and above-ground components.
Delay watering until temperatures rise above freezing.

Texas Tip: Native and established plants generally tolerate cold better, but extended freezes can still cause damage without protection.

Protecting Pets

Indoor & Outdoor Animals

Bring pets indoors whenever possible during freezing temperatures.
Provide warm, dry bedding away from drafts.
Increase food portions slightly for outdoor animals to maintain body heat.
Ensure constant access to unfrozen water.

Safety Considerations

Check vehicles before starting; cats may seek warmth under hoods.
Wipe pets’ paws after walks to remove ice or chemicals.
Never leave pets unattended in unheated garages or outdoor enclosures.

During the Freeze

Maintain indoor heat at a consistent temperature, day and night.
Check for leaks or signs of frozen pipes.
Limit outdoor exposure for people and pets.
Monitor local advisories regarding power and water systems.

After Temperatures Rise

Inspect pipes, faucets, and irrigation systems for leaks.
Remove plant coverings gradually to avoid shock.
Assess landscaping for delayed freeze damage.
Document and address any home damage promptly.