Why Do Pipes Burst During Cold Weather?

Water is unusual because it expands when it freezes into ice. Inside your pipes, this expansion is confined, creating tremendous pressure on the metal or plastic. No pipe material is immune to this force indefinitely. The ice blockage itself also prevents water from flowing, which can increase pressure elsewhere in the system, leading to a failure point.

Taking action before a deep freeze can prevent most pipe bursts. The goal is to keep water moving or keep pipes warm enough that ice cannot form. Simple, low-cost measures like insulation and drip methods are highly effective. In dry climates, occasional cold nights can still pose a significant risk to any exposed piping, as these materials are often not prepared for freezing temperatures.

• Let cold water drip slowly from faucets served by pipes in exterior walls or unheated spaces.
• Open cabinet doors to let warm air circulate around plumbing under sinks.
• Insulate pipes in attics, garages, and crawl spaces with foam sleeves.
• Seal cracks and openings in walls near pipes to block cold drafts.
• Drain and disconnect garden hoses before winter.
• Know where your main water shutoff valve is located.

After the water is off, the cleanup process begins. Standing water must be removed quickly to prevent further soaking into building materials like drywall and subflooring. Affected areas need thorough drying with specialized equipment to draw moisture from the air and structure. This drying process often takes several days to complete properly. Damaged porous materials often require removal and replacement. Local water damage pros have the commercial-grade fans and dehumidifiers needed to properly dry your home's structure and assess hidden damage behind walls or under floors.