Preventing Burst Pipes: A Guide for Texas Homeowners

While Texas winters are generally mild, occasional freezing temperatures can cause devastating pipe bursts. A single burst pipe can release hundreds of gallons of water per hour, causing extensive damage to your Irving home.

Why Pipes Burst in Texas

Pipes burst when water inside them freezes and expands. As ice forms, it creates pressure that eventually splits the pipe. When temperatures rise and the ice melts, water floods out through the crack.

Texas homes face unique risks because:

• Many homes have pipes in attics, crawl spaces, or exterior walls
• Homes aren't always built for extreme cold since freezes are infrequent
• Homeowners may not be prepared when rare cold snaps occur
• Temperature swings can catch people off guard

High-Risk Areas in Irving Homes

Pay special attention to these vulnerable locations:

Exterior Walls

Pipes running through exterior walls have minimal insulation from outside cold. Kitchen and bathroom pipes on outer walls are especially vulnerable.

Attics

Unheated attics expose pipes to freezing temperatures. HVAC condensation lines and water supply lines in attics need protection.

Crawl Spaces and Basements

These areas often have poor insulation and ventilation, making pipes susceptible to freezing.

Outdoor Fixtures

Hose bibs, sprinkler systems, and pool equipment can freeze and burst if not properly winterized.

Prevention Steps for Texas Homeowners

1. Insulate Exposed Pipes

Wrap pipes in unheated areas with foam pipe insulation. This inexpensive material (available at hardware stores) slips over pipes and significantly reduces freeze risk.

Focus on:

• Pipes in attics, crawl spaces, and garages
• Pipes along exterior walls
• Water supply lines for washing machines and dishwashers

2. Seal Air Leaks

Cold air entering through cracks around pipes can cause freezing. Seal gaps where pipes enter your home using caulk or expanding foam.

3. Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses

Before the first freeze:

• Disconnect all garden hoses from outdoor faucets
• Drain hoses and store them
• Shut off interior valves supplying outdoor faucets
• Open outdoor faucets to drain remaining water
• Install insulated faucet covers

4. Keep Cabinets Open During Freezes

Open cabinet doors under sinks during freezing nights. This allows warm air from your home to circulate around pipes, preventing freezing.

5. Let Faucets Drip

When temperatures drop below freezing, allow faucets on exterior walls to drip slowly. Moving water is much less likely to freeze than standing water.

Pro tip: You only need a thin stream—a slow drip is sufficient and won't waste much water.

6. Maintain Heating

Keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F, even when you're away. The cost of heating is far less than repairing burst pipe damage.

What to Do If a Pipe Bursts

1. Shut off the main water supply immediately. Know where your main shutoff valve is located before an emergency happens.

2. Turn off electricity to affected areas if water is near outlets or electrical fixtures.

3. Open faucets to relieve pressure and drain remaining water from the system.

4. Document the damage with photos and videos for insurance purposes.

5. Call professionals immediately. Contact Turbo Water Damage Restoration Irving at (469) 240-3829 for emergency water extraction and drying.

Signs a Pipe May Be Frozen

Catch frozen pipes before they burst:

• No water or very low water pressure from faucets
• Strange sounds (banging, clanking) from pipes
• Frost visible on exposed pipes
• Unusual smells from drains

If you suspect a frozen pipe, call a plumber immediately—before it bursts.

Emergency Preparedness Checklist

Be ready before winter weather arrives:

• ✓ Know location of main water shutoff valve
• ✓ Save plumber and water damage restoration numbers in your phone
• ✓ Keep pipe insulation materials on hand
• ✓ Have faucet covers for outdoor spigots
• ✓ Know which pipes are most vulnerable in your home
• ✓ Review your homeowner insurance policy

Conclusion

Burst pipes are preventable with proper preparation. While Texas freezes are infrequent, they can cause extensive damage when they occur. Insulate vulnerable pipes, know your shutoff valve location, and take protective action when freezing temperatures are forecast.

If you experience a burst pipe, quick professional response minimizes damage. Call Turbo Water Damage Restoration Irving at (469) 240-3829 for emergency water damage help.