How to Prevent Burst Pipes

Burst pipes are one of the most common and costly water losses. Here is how to protect your plumbing in winter and year-round.

A single burst pipe can release hundreds of gallons of water in minutes, soaking drywall, flooring, and framing before you even find the source. The good news: most burst pipes are preventable.

Why pipes burst

• Freezing. Water expands as it freezes, building pressure until the pipe splits. The damage often shows up when it thaws.
• High water pressure. Pressure above 80 psi stresses pipes and fittings over time.
• Corrosion and age. Older galvanized and copper lines weaken and fail.

Winter prevention

• Insulate exposed pipes in basements, crawl spaces, attics, and garages with foam sleeves.
• Keep the heat on, at least 55°F, even when you travel.
• Let faucets drip during extreme cold; moving water resists freezing.
• Open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls so warm air reaches the pipes.
• Disconnect garden hoses and shut off exterior spigots in fall.

Year-round prevention

• Check your water pressure with an inexpensive gauge and install a pressure regulator if it runs high.
• Know where your main shutoff is so you can stop the water fast if a pipe does fail.
• Replace aging pipes proactively, especially if you have had leaks before.
• Consider a smart leak detector that shuts off water automatically when it senses a leak.

If a pipe bursts anyway

Shut off your main water valve immediately, then cut power to wet areas if it is safe. Document the damage and call a 24/7 restoration company. Fast drying, including inside wall cavities, is what prevents mold and limits the repair.

The bottom line

A few hours of prevention each fall, plus knowing where your shutoff is, can save you a five-figure water loss. Burst pipes are common, but they are also one of the most avoidable disasters a homeowner faces.