Frozen Pipe Prevention: How Homeowners Can Avoid Costly Winter Water Damage

When temperatures plunge, frozen and burst pipes become one of the most expensive and disruptive winter problems homeowners face. In areas like Westchester County, where older homes, finished basements, and complex plumbing layouts are common, cold snaps can quickly turn into thousands of dollars in water damage if pipes aren’t properly protected.

Whether you’re a longtime homeowner or new to the area, taking proactive steps before and during extreme cold can save you major headaches — and major repair bills.

Here’s a practical guide to protecting your pipes when temperatures drop.

Why Frozen Pipes Are Such a Big Risk

When water freezes, it expands. That expansion puts tremendous pressure on pipes, especially copper, PEX, and older galvanized plumbing. Pipes often don’t burst while frozen — they burst when the ice begins to thaw and water pressure builds behind the blockage.

The most vulnerable areas include:

• Exterior walls

• Unheated basements and crawl spaces

• Attics and garages

• Under kitchen and bathroom sinks on outside walls

• Hose bibs and exterior spigots

A single burst pipe can cause extensive water damage to floors, drywall, cabinetry, and personal belongings — not to mention insurance claims and loss of use.

1. Insulate Exposed Pipes

One of the simplest and most effective steps is insulating pipes in cold areas.

Use:

• Foam pipe insulation sleeves

• Fiberglass pipe wrap

• Heat tape (for high-risk sections)

Focus on:

• Basement ceiling runs

• Pipes near foundation walls

• Garage plumbing

• Attic plumbing lines

Insulation is inexpensive and often pays for itself the first time it prevents a freeze.

2. Seal Drafts and Air Leaks

Cold air blowing directly onto pipes can freeze them even if the rest of the home is warm.

Check for:

• Gaps around sill plates

• Cracks near foundation walls

• Openings around where pipes enter the house

• Drafty basement windows

Use caulk, spray foam, or weatherstripping to seal leaks and keep cold air away from plumbing.

3. Let Faucets Drip During Extreme Cold

When temperatures drop into the teens or single digits, letting a faucet drip slightly can help prevent freezing by keeping water moving.

Best practices:

• Choose the faucet farthest from where water enters your home

• Use both hot and cold (if recommended by your plumber)

• A steady drip, not a stream, is enough

The small increase in water usage is far cheaper than repairing burst pipes.

4. Keep Interior Doors Open

Allow warm air to circulate around plumbing by opening cabinet doors under sinks and keeping basement and utility room doors open.

This is especially important for:

• Kitchen sinks on exterior walls

• Bathroom vanities on outside walls

• Utility rooms with exposed piping

5. Maintain Consistent Heat — Even When You’re Away

Never set your thermostat too low during cold snaps, even if you’re traveling or away for the weekend.

Recommended minimum:

• Keep heat at least 55°F (many pros recommend 60°F+ in very cold weather)

A frozen pipe while you’re away can cause days of unnoticed water damage.

6. Disconnect and Drain Exterior Hoses

Before deep cold hits:

• Disconnect all garden hoses

• Shut off interior valves to exterior spigots (if you have them)

• Drain exterior lines

Frozen hose bibs are a common cause of hidden wall leaks.

7. Know Where Your Main Water Shutoff Is

If a pipe does freeze or burst, fast action can dramatically limit damage.

Make sure you:

• Know the location of your main shutoff valve

• Test it periodically to be sure it works

• Label it clearly

In a true emergency, shutting off water immediately can save thousands in repairs.

What to Do If You Suspect a Frozen Pipe

If a faucet stops flowing or only trickles:

1. Keep the faucet open

2. Gently warm the pipe with a hair dryer or space heater

3. Never use open flames

4. Call a licensed plumber if you’re unsure

If a pipe bursts:

• Shut off the main water supply immediately

• Call a plumber and your insurance company right away

• Document damage with photos

A Quick Real Estate Tip

For buyers and sellers in winter markets like Westchester, pipe protection is more than a maintenance issue — it’s a value issue. Burst pipes can delay closings, create insurance claims, and raise red flags during home inspections.

Proactive winterization helps:

• Protect your home’s value

• Avoid deal-killing surprises

• Reduce insurance risks

• Keep your property market-ready year-round