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Why Is Winter the Most Common Season for Burst Pipes?

Last updated October 23, 2026

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The short answer

The Physics of Freezing Water

Water is unusual because it expands as it turns to ice. This expansion inside a rigid pipe leaves no room for the ice to grow outward. The pressure from this expansion can exceed the strength of common plumbing materials like copper, PVC, or galvanized steel. This force is the primary reason a pipe fails, not just the ice itself.

This pressure spike can happen anywhere ice forms. It is most common in pipes exposed to cold air, such as those in unheated attics, garages, inside exterior walls, or in crawl spaces. A small ice blockage can create a sealed section where pressure builds rapidly. When it gives way, you get a sudden and significant water release.

Common Vulnerable Pipe Locations

Certain areas of your home are far more susceptible to freezing. Pipes running through uninsulated exterior walls are at high risk, as cold outdoor air chills them directly. Supply lines in crawl spaces or attics often lack sufficient insulation and heating, making them prime targets for freezing during a cold snap.

Outdoor hose bibs are a frequent failure point if hoses are not disconnected. Water left in the bib and the connecting pipe can freeze and crack the fixture. Interior pipes near drafty windows or doors can also freeze if the home's heating system fails or is set too low during very cold weather.

  • Pipes in unheated attics or crawl spaces
  • Supply lines inside exterior walls
  • Outdoor hose bibs and sprinkler system lines
  • Pipes in garages, especially on shared walls
  • Pipes in utility rooms or near vents
  • Kitchen sink pipes on an outside wall

Preventative Steps for Homeowners

You can take several actions to prevent frozen pipes. Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses, and shut off the water supply to outdoor faucets if your home's system allows it. Insulate pipes in vulnerable areas with foam pipe sleeves, which are inexpensive and easy to install. Seal air leaks near pipes with caulk or insulation to keep cold air out.

Letting a faucet drip slightly during extreme cold can relieve pressure in the system. Keep cabinet doors under sinks open to allow warm room air to circulate around the pipes. Maintain a consistent home temperature, day and night, and do not set the thermostat too low if you are away. If you live in Chandler, know where your main water shutoff valve is located for emergencies.

What Happens When a Pipe Bursts

A burst pipe releases water under full line pressure. This can flood a home with hundreds of gallons per hour, causing immediate and severe damage. Water soaks into drywall, insulation, flooring, and personal belongings. The initial flow can also create electrical hazards if it reaches outlets or appliances.

The damage extends beyond the initial flood. Soaked materials begin to warp and swell within hours. Mold can start growing on wet surfaces in as little as 24 to 48 hours. This secondary damage often costs far more to repair than fixing the pipe itself, making it critical for you to act quickly to limit losses.

Responding to a Burst Pipe

Your first step is always to shut off the main water supply to stop the flow. Then, turn off electricity to the affected area at the circuit breaker if it is safe to do so. Move valuable items out of the water and start removing standing water with towels, a mop, or a wet-dry vacuum if you have one. Acting quickly helps minimize damage.

Contact local water damage pros immediately. They have industrial equipment to extract water, dry the structure thoroughly, and prevent mold. While you wait, document the damage with photos or video for your insurance records. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. The pros can assess the damage and begin the drying process to save your home's structure.

  • Shut off the main water valve immediately
  • Turn off electricity to the wet area for safety
  • Call for professional water damage restoration
  • Remove valuables and start soaking up water
  • Document all damage for your insurance claim
  • Begin air circulation with fans if it is safe

Water damage does not wait

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Frequently asked questions

At what temperature do pipes typically freeze?

Pipes are at serious risk of freezing when outdoor temperatures stay at 20 degrees Fahrenheit or below. However, pipes in uninsulated spaces can freeze when it is consistently below freezing, around 32 degrees, especially if there is a significant wind chill making walls colder.

Can pipes burst even if they are not frozen solid?

Yes. A small ice blockage can create enough pressure downstream from the ice to cause a pipe to burst. The rupture often happens where there is no ice, between the blockage and a closed faucet, because that is where the water pressure builds with no escape.

What should I do if a pipe is frozen but hasn't burst?

Shut off the water supply to that pipe or the main valve. Then, gently apply heat to the frozen section using a hair dryer, heating pad, or towels soaked in warm water. Never use an open flame. If you cannot thaw it safely, call a plumber.

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