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How Can I Prevent Storm Damage During Freezing Weather?

Last updated October 20, 2026

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The short answer

Protect Your Pipes from Freezing

Insulating exposed water pipes in attics, basements, and crawl spaces is a critical step. Use foam pipe insulation sleeves, which are inexpensive and easy to install. For pipes on exterior walls, consider adding extra insulation to the wall cavity. You should also seal any cracks or gaps where cold air could reach the pipes with caulk or expanding foam.

Locating your main water shutoff valve and ensuring everyone knows its location is important. If you plan to be away during cold weather, setting your thermostat to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit is a common step. Letting a small, steady drip of water run from vulnerable faucets can also help. These actions lower the chance of a pipe bursting and causing major water damage.

Fortify Your Roof and Gutters

Clear all leaves, pine needles, and debris from your gutters and downspouts before winter. Clogged gutters prevent melting snow and ice from draining properly, which can lead to ice dams. Ice dams form at the roof edge, forcing water back under the shingles and into your home. Ensuring proper drainage is one of the most effective defenses against roof leaks.

Inspect your roof for missing, cracked, or loose shingles and have them repaired. Check the flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights for any signs of wear or separation. Proper attic insulation and ventilation help keep the roof deck cold and prevent snow from melting unevenly. A well-maintained roof is far less likely to suffer damage from heavy snow or ice accumulation.

  • Clean all gutters and downspouts thoroughly.
  • Inspect and repair damaged or missing roof shingles.
  • Check and seal flashing around roof penetrations.
  • Ensure attic insulation meets recommended levels for your region.
  • Verify attic vents are clear and functioning properly.
  • Trim back tree branches that overhang or touch the roof.

Seal Your Home's Exterior

Walk around your home's exterior and look for gaps where siding meets foundations, windows, or doors. Use high-quality exterior caulk to seal these openings to prevent cold drafts and moisture intrusion. Pay special attention to areas where utility lines or pipes enter the home, as these are common entry points for cold air. A tightly sealed home retains heat better and protects interior walls.

Check the weatherstripping around all exterior doors and windows. Replace any strips that are cracked, brittle, or missing. Installing door sweeps on the bottom of exterior doors can block cold air from blowing in. For older windows, applying a temporary interior plastic window film kit adds an extra layer of insulation. These measures improve energy efficiency and reduce the strain on your heating system.

Secure Outdoor Items and Landscaping

Before a freeze or winter storm, bring patio furniture, grills, and potted plants indoors or into a sheltered area. Secure or store any loose items in your yard, like garden tools, toys, or decorations. High winds accompanying winter storms can turn these objects into dangerous projectiles that damage your home, car, or windows. Taking a few minutes to tidy up can prevent costly repairs.

Prepare for Power Outages and Emergencies

Assemble an emergency kit with essentials like flashlights, batteries, a battery-powered radio, non-perishable food, water, and blankets. Keep a supply of rock salt or a pet-safe ice melt product to treat walkways and driveways. Knowing how to manually operate your garage door is also important if the power goes out. Being prepared helps you stay safe and manage minor issues yourself.

Know how to shut off your home's water supply at the main valve. If pipes do freeze, shutting the water off can limit the amount of water that leaks out if a pipe bursts. Have the contact information for a local plumber and your insurance agent readily available. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Acting quickly is key to minimizing water damage.

Knowing how to shut off your home's water supply at the main valve is another critical step. If pipes do freeze, shutting the water off can limit the water that leaks out if a pipe bursts. Have contact information for a local plumber and your insurance agent ready. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

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Frequently asked questions

At what temperature should I start dripping my faucets?

You should let faucets drip when temperatures are forecast to drop below 20 degrees Fahrenheit, especially if pipes are in uninsulated areas. A slow, steady drip from both hot and cold lines is often sufficient to keep water moving and prevent freezing inside the pipes.

What should I do if my pipes freeze?

If you suspect a frozen pipe, keep the faucet open and gently apply heat to the frozen section using a hair dryer or heating pad. Never use an open flame. If you cannot thaw it or locate the freeze, or if a pipe has burst, shut off the main water valve and call a plumber.

Does homeowners insurance cover storm damage from freezing?

Coverage depends heavily on your specific policy and the circumstances. Damage from a burst pipe is often covered, but damage due to lack of maintenance may not be. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Review your policy and speak with your insurance agent to understand your coverage.

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