How to keep your Home safe during cold temperatures in North Carolina

When winter weather hits North Carolina, one of the biggest risks to your home is frozen pipes. Even a short overnight freeze can cause a pipe to burst — leading to thousands of dollars in water damage. For first-time homebuyers, military families near Fort Liberty, and longtime NC homeowners, understanding how to protect your plumbing is one of the most important steps you can take during cold temperatures.

Below is a straightforward guide to keeping your pipes — and the rest of your home — safe when temperatures drop.

Start with your Pipes: Your Home’s most vulnerable Winter risk

Water expands when it freezes, and when that expansion happens inside your pipes, the pressure can cause them to crack or burst. NC homes, especially older ones or homes with crawl spaces, are particularly vulnerable because many pipes run through unheated areas.

       How to prevent frozen pipes

• Let faucets drip during freezing nights to keep water moving

• Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate

• Insulate exposed pipes in crawl spaces, attics, garages, and basements

• Disconnect garden hoses and use insulated covers on outdoor spigots

• Know where your main water shutoff valve is in case of emergency

  High-risk spots in NC Homes

• Kitchen sinks on exterior-facing walls

• Laundry rooms located in garages

• Older crawlspace plumbing setups

• Vacant homes or investment properties

  If a pipe does freeze

Act quickly — fast action can significantly limit damage.

1. Turn off the main water supply.

2. Gently warm the pipe with a hair dryer or heating pad.

3. Never use an open flame.

4. Call a plumber if you can’t locate or safely thaw the pipe.

If you’ll be out of town — or if you have a vacant property — winterize the plumbing. We can connect you with local plumbers who handle this affordably.

Keep Your Heating System Running Efficiently

Your HVAC system helps keep your pipes warm, so heating maintenance plays a direct role in preventing freeze damage.

What to do:

• Replace air filters regularly.

• Keep vents open and unblocked.

• Schedule a winter HVAC check if you haven’t already.

If your home struggles to maintain temperature, your pipes are more at risk.

For Sellers and Landlords

Pipe issues are one of the top winter problems found during inspections.
If you're preparing to sell, or managing a rental:

• Insulate pipes in unheated areas

• Winterize vacant homes

• Ensure tenants know basic freeze-prevention steps

• Fix drafts and HVAC issues before showings

These small steps protect your property and reduce liability.

Final Thoughts

Cold weather in North Carolina may not be extreme, but even brief freezes can cause extensive damage. Taking practical steps — especially when it comes to protecting your pipes — helps you avoid major repair costs and keeps your home safe all winter long.

Need help preparing your home for winter or getting ready to sell?

We offer a free home evaluation and can connect you with trusted local contractors for plumbing, HVAC, insulation, and pre-listing repairs.

The Signature Group Realty Team — Fort Bragg & Fayetteville, NC real estate experts for VA buyers, PCS moves, and first-time homebuyers and sellers.