When freezing temperatures roll into the Lowcountry, most of us are caught a little off guard. Coastal homes here are built for humidity and hurricanes, not hard freezes, which means a cold snap can do real damage in just a few hours.
The good news is that a little preparation goes a long way. At C.T. Lowndes, we’ve helped South Carolina families protect their homes since 1850, and we’d love to help you get ready before the next winter storm rolls in.
Reach out to our team anytime to review your homeowners coverage so you know exactly what’s protected when temperatures drop.
Why Freezing Temperatures Hit Coastal Homes So Hard
Homes in our region usually aren’t built with hard freezes in mind. Pipes often run through crawl spaces, exterior walls, and unheated areas like garages, which leaves them vulnerable when cold weather settles in.
That vulnerability is exactly why a 24-hour freeze can lead to thousands of dollars in water damage. A single frozen pipe that bursts can release hundreds of gallons of water into your home before you even notice the leak.
Know Where Your Main Water Shut Off Valve Is
Before anything else, find your main water shut off valve and make sure it actually works. This is the single most important thing you can do before a freeze.
If a pipe breaks while you’re home, shutting off this master valve within minutes can be the difference between a small repair and a full renovation. Test it now so you’re not searching for it in the dark with water coming through the ceiling.
How to Prepare Your Pipes for Freezing Temperatures
Pipes are the number one concern during any winter storm in our area. Most water damage claims we see during cold snaps trace back to frozen pipes that weren’t properly insulated or protected.
Here’s what to do before temperatures drop:
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Add pipe insulation to any exposed pipes in crawl spaces, attics, and garages
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Disconnect garden hoses and cover outdoor faucets with foam spigot covers
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Drain outdoor pipes and shut off the valves that feed them
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Open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls so warm air can reach the plumbing
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Let a small stream of water drip from one faucet on the farthest side of your house to keep water moving
Moving water is much harder to freeze than still water. Even a slow trickle from one faucet open overnight can prevent freezing throughout your whole system.
Protect Your Garage, Crawl Spaces, and Unheated Areas
Your garage door is one of the most overlooked weak points during cold weather. If you have water pipes running through the garage, keep that door closed and consider adding weather stripping around the bottom edge.
Crawl spaces deserve the same attention. Close any foundation vents before the freeze, and if you have a known cold spot, a safely positioned space heater can help, though never leave one running unattended.
Keep the Heat Moving Inside Your House
Your goal during a freeze is to keep warm air circulating to every corner of the house. Run ceiling fans on the reverse (clockwise) setting to push warm air down from the ceiling.
Open interior doors so heat can move freely between rooms. If you have rooms you usually keep closed off, this is the week to open them up.
Check Your Water Heater and Heating System
Your water heater works overtime during a freeze, so give it a quick once-over before the cold hits. Look for any signs of leaks, listen for unusual sounds, and make sure the area around it is clear.
If your water heater is in the garage or another unheated area, it needs extra attention. Wrap it in an insulating blanket if possible, and keep the space around it as warm as you reasonably can.
Stock Up Before the Winter Storm Arrives
Power outages are common during winter storms in our region, especially when ice builds up on power lines. Stock up on a few essentials a day or two ahead of any predicted freeze.
Here’s a basic list to work from:
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Bottled water (one gallon per person per day, three-day minimum)
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Canned food and a manual can opener
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Flashlights and fresh batteries
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A well-stocked first aid kit
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Extra blankets
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Phone chargers and a portable battery pack
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A full tank of gas in at least one car
If you rely on a gas stove or fireplace for backup heat, make sure you have working carbon monoxide detectors and that the chimney is clear.
Watch for Ice Dams on Your Roof
Ice dams form when heat escapes through your attic, melts snow on your roof, and then refreezes at the colder edges. The trapped water backs up under your shingles and finds its way inside.
Most coastal South Carolina homes don’t get heavy snow, but freezing rain and ice can still cause similar problems. Good attic insulation is the best long-term defense.
Don’t Forget Your Plants, Pets, and Outdoor Spaces
Bring potted plants inside or move them to a garage or covered porch out of direct sunlight and wind. Cover in-ground plants with frost cloth or old sheets, never plastic directly on the leaves.
Pets need to come inside during hard freezes, no exceptions. If you have outdoor animals, give them deep dry bedding and a wind-blocked shelter.
What to Do If a Pipe Bursts
If you hear water running when no faucets are on, or you see a sudden drop in water pressure, act fast. Shut off the main water shut off valve immediately, then open all the faucets in the house to drain the remaining water.
Call a licensed plumber right away, and document everything with photos and videos.
After the Freeze: What to Check
Once temperatures rise above freezing, walk through your house and double check for any signs of trouble. Look for damp spots on ceilings and walls, listen for the sound of water running inside walls, and check your water bill for an unusual spike in water usage.
Outside, inspect outdoor faucets and any exposed pipes for cracks or leaks. A pipe can freeze, crack, and only start leaking once the ice melts.
Make Sure Your Insurance Is Ready Too
The best freeze prep includes making sure your homeowners policy is up to date. Coverage for frozen pipes, water damage, and related losses can vary quite a bit from one policy to the next.
Our team at C.T. Lowndes is here to help you understand exactly what your policy covers before you need it. Schedule a free policy review with us and we’ll make sure your coverage matches the home you’re protecting, freeze or no freeze.
People Also Ask These Questions About Home Prep For Freezing Temps
At what temperature do pipes freeze?
Pipes can start to freeze when temperatures drop to 20°F or below, especially if they’re exposed or in unheated areas. In our region, even a brief dip into the teens can cause problems for pipes that aren’t properly insulated.
Should I leave my faucets dripping during a freeze?
Yes, letting one faucet on the farthest side of your house drip slowly can help prevent freezing. Moving water is harder to freeze than still water, and the slight pressure release also reduces the chance of a pipe bursting if ice does form.
Does homeowners insurance cover frozen pipe damage?
Most standard homeowners policies cover sudden and accidental water damage from burst pipes, but there are exceptions. Coverage often depends on whether you took reasonable steps to keep the heat on and prevent freezing, which is why a quick policy review before winter is always a good idea.
How long does it take for pipes to freeze in an unheated house?
In an unheated house, pipes can begin to freeze within about six hours. The exact timing depends on pipe location, insulation, and how cold it gets outside.
What should I do if my power goes out during a freeze?
Keep the heat in by closing curtains and stuffing towels under drafty doors, and dress in layers to stay warm. Avoid opening the refrigerator and freezer often, and never use a gas stove, grill, or generator indoors to heat your home.
