

Top 10 Reasons Pipes Burst During Winter and How to Prevent Them
Jan 16
3 min read
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Burst pipes are a common and costly problem, especially during the winter months. Here’s a detailed look at the main causes of burst pipes, why they matter, and how you can prevent them.
1. Blocked Drains or Clogs
What Happens: Debris, grease, or foreign objects block water flow, increasing pressure within the pipes. Why It Matters: Persistent clogs can cause pressure to build, leading to burst pipes or leaks. Prevention: Avoid pouring grease down drains and use strainers to catch debris.
2. High Water Pressure
What Happens: Ice formations block water flow, forcing pressure to build within pipes. Why It Matters: Excess pressure can cause pipes to crack or burst, leading to significant water damage. Prevention: Install a pressure regulator to maintain safe water pressure levels and monitor for sudden spikes.
3. Lack of Insulation
What Happens: Pipes in uninsulated areas, such as exterior walls or garages, are exposed to freezing air. Why It Matters: Unprotected pipes freeze faster, making them highly susceptible to bursting. Prevention: Wrap pipes with foam insulation sleeves and seal cracks in walls to keep cold air out.
4. Aging or Corroded Pipes
What Happens: Over time, pipes weaken due to rust, corrosion, or wear and tear. Why It Matters: Older pipes are more likely to fail under pressure, especially during winter when they contract in cold temperatures. Prevention: Replace aging pipes with modern, durable materials like PVC or PEX.
5. Poor Installation
What Happens: Pipes installed without proper insulation or slope may collect standing water, which can freeze and expand. Why It Matters: Improper installation increases the risk of freezing and subsequent bursting. Prevention: Hire licensed professionals to install and inspect your plumbing system.
6. Tree Root Intrusion
What Happens: Roots grow into underground pipes, causing cracks and blockages.Why It Matters: Blockages from roots can create pressure buildup, eventually leading to pipe failure.Prevention: Conduct regular inspections of your sewer and water lines and install root barriers if necessary.
7. Rapid Temperature Fluctuations
What Happens: Sudden drops and rises in temperature can stress pipe materials, causing them to crack.Why It Matters: Temperature stress weakens pipe joints and seals, leading to leaks or bursts.Prevention: Use heat tape on vulnerable pipes and maintain consistent indoor temperatures.
8. Freezing Temperatures
What Happens: Water expands as it freezes, creating immense pressure inside pipes. This pressure can rupture weak spots or joints.Why It Matters: Ice blockages disrupt water flow and weaken pipe integrity, increasing the risk of flooding when the ice thaws.Prevention: Insulate exposed pipes in attics, basements, and crawl spaces. Keep faucets dripping during cold snaps to maintain flow and prevent freezing.
9. Ground Movement
What Happens: Shifting soil or freezing ground can stress underground pipes. Why It Matters: Ground movement may crack or dislodge pipes, resulting in leaks or bursts. Prevention: Monitor for signs of ground movement and stabilize soil near your home.
10. Neglected Maintenance
What Happens: Small leaks or cracks go unnoticed and worsen over time. Why It Matters: Failing to address minor plumbing issues increases the likelihood of a burst pipe during winter. Prevention: Schedule routine plumbing inspections and address issues promptly.
Clean Way Restoration: Your Trusted Winter Damage Expert
Burst pipes can lead to significant water damage, especially during winter. Clean Way Restoration offers 24/7 emergency water extraction, drying, and damage repair services to restore your home quickly. We work with all major insurance providers to make the process seamless and stress-free.
📞 Contact Clean Way Restoration today to protect your home this winter!