Cold Weather in Texas: What Homeowners Should Check Before the Next Freeze
It doesn’t happen often, but when cold weather finally shows up in Texas, it has a way of exposing problems homeowners didn’t know they had. Our homes are built for heat, not hard freezes, and even a short cold snap can cause costly damage if the house isn’t prepared.
Whether you’re a homeowner, buyer, or seller, here are the most important things to check before the next freeze hits Central Texas.
1. Exposed Exterior Pipes and Hose Bibs
One of the most common cold-weather failures in Texas homes is frozen or burst plumbing.
What to check:
Exterior hose bibs (especially on older homes)
Pipes in unconditioned spaces like garages
Plumbing running along exterior walls
Simple foam covers help, but they’re not foolproof. Disconnect hoses completely, insulate exposed piping, and know where your main water shutoff is located—just in case.
2. Attic Insulation and Air Leaks
Heat loss through the attic is a major issue during cold weather, and it’s often invisible to homeowners.
Common problem areas:
Poor or uneven insulation
Gaps around attic access panels
Unsealed penetrations around vents and wiring
Cold air intrusion can lead to higher energy bills, uncomfortable rooms, and even frozen pipes in attic spaces. This is also where thermal imaging becomes extremely useful during a professional inspection.
3. Water Heaters in Garages or Exterior Closets
Many Texas homes have water heaters located in garages or exterior utility rooms—prime locations for freeze damage.
What to look for:
Lack of insulation on supply lines
No enclosure or weather protection
Old or improperly installed pressure relief valves
A frozen water heater line can mean no hot water—or worse, a ruptured pipe once things thaw.
4. Irrigation and Backflow Devices
Irrigation systems are often overlooked until they fail.
Before a freeze:
Shut off the irrigation supply
Drain the system if possible
Insulate or cover backflow preventers
Cracked backflow devices are expensive to replace and are a common issue after Texas cold snaps.
5. Foundation Movement from Temperature Swings
Texas soil expands and contracts with moisture and temperature changes. Cold weather combined with dry conditions can contribute to foundation movement.
Signs to watch for:
New cracks in interior walls or ceilings
Doors or windows sticking
Separation at exterior trim or brick
These issues don’t always show up immediately, but winter weather can be a trigger.
6. HVAC Heating Performance
Cold weather is when heating systems get tested—and sometimes fail.
Homeowners should check:
Heat output and airflow
Emergency heat function
Unusual noises or odors
If a system struggles during the first cold stretch of the season, that’s often a warning sign.
Why Cold Weather Is a Great Time for a Home Inspection
From a professional standpoint, cold weather inspections can actually reveal issues that aren’t visible during warmer months. Roof leaks, insulation deficiencies, HVAC performance problems, and moisture intrusion are often easier to detect when temperatures drop.
That’s why seasonal inspections—especially during winter—are a smart move for both homeowners and buyers.
Final Thought
Cold weather in Texas may be brief, but the damage it can cause isn’t. A little preparation goes a long way, and knowing what to look for can save thousands in repairs.
If you’re buying, selling, or simply want peace of mind, a professional home inspection during cold weather can uncover problems before they turn into emergencies.
