When winter rolls in and temperatures drop, your home faces a hidden threat that can turn into a costly disaster: frozen pipes. A burst pipe from freezing can release hundreds of gallons of water per hour, damaging walls, flooring, insulation, and personal belongings. Worse yet, water damage claims can average thousands of dollars, and they’re one of the most common and preventable causes of wintertime insurance claims.
At Crain Insurance Group, we believe in proactive protection. In this post, we’ll break down why pipes freeze, how to prevent it, what your insurance may (or may not) cover, and what to do if the worst happens.
Why Do Pipes Freeze?
Water expands when it freezes. If water is trapped in a pipe and temperatures fall below 32°F (0°C), the ice puts pressure on the pipe’s interior walls, eventually causing it to burst. Pipes located in unheated areas of the home, such as attics, basements, crawl spaces, and exterior walls, are most at risk.
Signs a Pipe Might Be Frozen
- No water or low water pressure when you turn on a faucet
- Frost on the outside of exposed pipes
- Odd smells coming from your drains (indicating a blocked pipe)
- Strange noises from the plumbing system
Spotting these early signs could help you act before a pipe bursts.
10 Tips to Prevent Frozen Pipes
Here are some smart and practical ways to protect your plumbing this winter:
1. Keep Your Home Warm
Maintain a consistent indoor temperature, even at night or while away. Set your thermostat to at least 55°F to keep the ambient heat flowing throughout your home.
2. Insulate Exposed Pipes
Use foam pipe insulation or heat tape to cover pipes in vulnerable areas like basements, attics, and garages. This is a cost-effective way to safeguard pipes in unheated zones.
3. Seal Cracks and Gaps
Inspect your home’s foundation and walls for gaps where cold air might seep in. Use caulk or insulation to close off entry points near pipes.
4. Open Cabinet Doors
In kitchens and bathrooms, open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around the plumbing, especially if your sinks are along exterior walls.
5. Let Faucets Drip
Allowing a slow trickle of water to flow through at-risk faucets helps relieve pressure buildup in the pipes and keeps water moving, reducing the chance of freezing.
6. Disconnect Hoses and Drain Outdoor Faucets
Before the first freeze, disconnect garden hoses and shut off water to outdoor spigots. Drain them completely to prevent ice buildup.
7. Use Smart Thermostats or Pipe Monitors
Install devices that alert you if indoor temps drop dangerously low or if a pipe is at risk of freezing. These tools are especially helpful for vacation homes or frequent travelers.
8. Close Garage Doors
If water supply lines run through your garage, keep the doors closed to preserve heat and reduce cold air exposure.
9. Add Insulation to Vulnerable Areas
Consider upgrading insulation in attics, basements, and crawl spaces. The better insulated these areas are, the less chance your pipes will freeze.
10. Know Where Your Shutoff Valve Is
In case a pipe does burst, knowing how to quickly shut off your home’s main water supply can minimize damage dramatically.
What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze
If you suspect a pipe has frozen but hasn’t burst:
- Turn off the water supply to reduce pressure.
- Open faucets to help relieve pressure and encourage melting.
- Apply gentle heat using a hairdryer, heating pad, or warm towels.
- Never use open flames like a blowtorch, it can damage the pipe or start a fire.
- Call a plumber if you’re unable to safely thaw the pipe or if damage is suspected.
If a pipe bursts:
- Shut off the water immediately.
- Turn off electricity to any area affected by flooding.
- Move furniture and valuables out of the area if safe to do so.
- Document damage with photos/videos for your insurance claim.
- Call your insurance agent to begin the claims process.
Is Frozen Pipe Damage Covered by Insurance?
In most cases, yes, standard homeowners’ insurance policies typically cover damage caused by a burst pipe if it was sudden and accidental. That includes water damage to floors, walls, ceilings, and personal belongings.
However, there are a few caveats:
You may not be covered if:
- The pipe froze due to negligence (e.g., not maintaining heat in the home)
- The damage occurred in a vacant or unoccupied home without proper winterization
- You failed to perform basic maintenance or didn’t address previous issues
Your insurance may also limit or exclude mold remediation unless it’s a direct result of a covered peril.
Tip: Check with your agent to make sure your policy includes adequate water damage protection, and review your deductible and limits.
When to Consider Additional Coverage
Depending on your risk and the value of your home, you might consider these policy options:
- Water Backup Coverage: Covers water damage from backed-up drains or sump pump failure (often excluded in standard policies)
- Service Line Coverage: Protects underground piping and wiring on your property
- Equipment Breakdown Coverage: Helps if a furnace or water heater fails due to mechanical breakdown
If you own a vacation home or rental property, special endorsements or landlord insurance may also be necessary.
Long-Term Prevention Tips for Next Winter
After you’ve protected your home this season, start thinking ahead:
- Schedule a plumbing inspection each fall
- Replace aging or corroded pipes with freeze-resistant materials like PEX
- Consider rerouting pipes away from exterior walls
- Upgrade insulation and ventilation in vulnerable parts of the home
Being proactive not only prevents damage, it can also lower your insurance premiums over time by reducing risk.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Winter Catch You Off Guard
Frozen pipes and water damage can derail your winter and drain your finances, but with a few preventative steps, you can stay ahead of the freeze. At Crain Insurance Group, we’re here to help you prepare, protect, and respond with confidence.
If you’re not sure whether your current policy offers the protection you need, let’s talk. We’ll walk you through your coverage options and make sure you’re insulated against the unexpected.
Contact Crain Insurance Group today to schedule your winter coverage review.
Stay warm, stay safe, and keep your pipes flowing all winter long.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is for general recommendation purposes only. Please consult with your own licensed insurance agent for advice specific to your situation. Insurance can vary by state. If you don’t have a trusted agent, we’re happy to assist with quotes and guidance.