Frozen pipes can turn a cold-weather plumbing problem into major water damage. When water in a pipe freezes, ice can block the line, and pressure can build within the plumbing, eventually causing the pipe to split. A split may not become obvious until the ice begins to thaw and water starts escaping into walls, ceilings, floors, cabinets, or other parts of the property. The American Red Cross notes that pipes in exterior walls, unheated areas, garages, crawl spaces, attics, and similar cold locations are especially vulnerable.
For homeowners and businesses in Colorado Springs, preparing plumbing before hard freezes is one of the most practical ways to reduce the risk of winter flooding. The steps below explain how frozen pipes happen, what to do before temperatures drop, and when you may need water damage restoration.
Resource: redcross.org
Key Takeaways
- Frozen pipes can lead to significant water damage as ice buildup creates pressure and can cause leaks.
- To prevent frozen pipes, homeowners should insulate exposed plumbing, remove outdoor hoses, and maintain indoor heat above 55°F.
- Signs of a frozen pipe include reduced water flow, frost on pipes, and low water pressure.
- If a pipe freezes, keep the faucet open while using safe heat sources to thaw it, and avoid open flames.
- In case of a burst pipe, shut off the main water supply and consider professional water damage restoration services.
Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
Table of contents
- Why Do Frozen Pipes Cause Flooding?
- Which Pipes Are Most Likely to Freeze?
- How Can You Prevent Frozen Pipes?
- Should You Let Faucets Drip?
- What Are Signs of a Frozen Pipe?
- What Should You Do If a Pipe Freezes?
- What Should You Do If a Pipe Bursts?
- Why Does Fast Water Removal Matter?
- Can Frozen Pipes Cause Hidden Damage?
- How Can You Prepare Before Leaving Home?
- When Should You Call CMS Restoration?
Why Do Frozen Pipes Cause Flooding?
Frozen pipes may flood a property after ice blocks the line or damages the pipe wall. Metal and plastic pipes may both split under these conditions.
Flooding often becomes noticeable when temperatures warm and the frozen section starts to thaw. A damaged supply line can then release water quickly, sometimes inside a wall or another hard-to-see area.
Which Pipes Are Most Likely to Freeze?
Pipes exposed to cold air or located in poorly heated spaces face the greatest risk. Common trouble spots include:
- Water lines in basements, crawl spaces, attics, and garages
- Pipes under kitchen or bathroom cabinets on exterior walls
- Outdoor hose bibs and connected supply lines
- Irrigation or sprinkler supply lines
- Plumbing that passes through areas with little insulation
A pipe doesn’t have to be outdoors to freeze. Indoor plumbing near exterior walls or cold air leaks may also be affected during prolonged freezing weather.
How Can You Prevent Frozen Pipes?
1. Remove and drain outdoor hoses before freezing weather arrives
If your plumbing setup allows it, close the interior valve that supplies an outdoor hose bib and leave the exterior faucet open so remaining water can drain.
2. Insulate exposed plumbing in unheated or cold areas
Pipe sleeves, approved heat cable, and other plumbing-specific products may provide added protection when installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Keep garage doors closed when water lines run through the garage
Keeping the garage door closed reduces cold-air exposure around plumbing.
4. Open cabinet doors beneath sinks during very cold weather
Air from the heated room can circulate around plumbing located near exterior walls. Move household cleaners and chemicals out of children’s reach before leaving cabinet doors open.
5. Keep indoor heat at a stable setting during a cold spell
The American Red Cross advises homeowners who leave during cold weather to keep the heat on and set the thermostat no lower than 55°F.
Should You Let Faucets Drip?
A small trickle from a faucet served by an exposed pipe may reduce the chance of freezing during severe cold. Moving water through the line may help prevent ice from forming in a vulnerable section.
This measure is usually most relevant during periods of very low temperatures, especially when a particular pipe has frozen before or runs through a cold area of the building. Faucet dripping should support other winter-preparation measures, not replace insulation or heating.
What Are Signs of a Frozen Pipe?
A faucet that produces little or no water while other fixtures work normally may indicate a frozen line. Frost on visible piping, an unusually cold pipe section, or a sudden loss of water pressure can also point to a blockage.
Check exposed lines near exterior walls, under sinks, in basements, crawl spaces, and where the water service enters the building. Several pipes may freeze during the same cold spell, so check other faucets.
What Should You Do If a Pipe Freezes?
Act carefully and avoid open flames. Keep the affected faucet open while warming the frozen section so melting water can flow through the line.
The American Red Cross recommends safe heat sources such as an electric heating pad, hair dryer, portable space heater kept away from flammable materials, or towels soaked in hot water. Never use a blowtorch, propane heater, kerosene heater, charcoal stove, or other open flame to thaw a pipe. Contact a licensed plumber if you can’t find the frozen section, can’t reach it safely, or it won’t thaw with safe methods.
What Should You Do If a Pipe Bursts?
Shut off the property’s main water supply as soon as it is safe to do so. Stopping the flow can limit how far the water spreads.
If water has reached drywall, flooring, insulation, ceilings, cabinets, or other building materials, you may need professional water mitigation. CMS Restoration provides 24/7 water damage mitigation and restoration for residential and commercial properties in the Colorado Springs area.
Why Does Fast Water Removal Matter?
Water can travel beyond the area where a leak first appears. Drywall, carpet, padding, wood, and insulation may retain moisture even after standing water is gone.
Prompt water extraction and drying can reduce the time affected materials remain saturated. The extent of the damage, the materials involved, and how far the moisture has spread will determine what can be dried and what may need repair or replacement.
Can Frozen Pipes Cause Hidden Damage?
Yes. Water from a split pipe may move inside wall cavities, beneath flooring, through ceilings, or into insulation before visible signs appear.
A small stain or damp area may not show the full extent of the moisture. Professional moisture detection may be appropriate when water has entered concealed parts of a home or commercial property.
How Can You Prepare Before Leaving Home?
Before leaving home during freezing weather, take a few precautions to protect the plumbing. Keep the heat on and protect vulnerable plumbing from cold air. The American Red Cross recommends keeping the heat at least 55°F when leaving home during cold weather.
A trusted person who can check the property during an extended absence may also spot heating problems or water leaks before damage spreads. Homeowners should know where the main water shutoff is located before an emergency occurs.
When Should You Call CMS Restoration?
Professional water damage restoration may be needed when a frozen or burst pipe has soaked building materials, left standing water, or affected areas that cannot be dried thoroughly using normal household methods.
CMS Restoration serves homes and businesses in Colorado Springs and surrounding communities. The team provides 24/7 water damage mitigation and restoration services, including water extraction, structural drying, moisture monitoring, and repairs once drying is complete. If a frozen or burst pipe has caused water damage in your home or business, contact CMS Restoration for assistance in the Colorado Springs area.