Call This Monday to Get $35 OFF

Call ThisMonday to Get $35 OFF

24 Hour Emergency Plumbers in Pittsburgh and nearby cities.

4.7 / 5 Ratings based on 1273 reviews

Your Neighborhood Plumbers

image

March 05,2022

Do Frozen Pipes Always Burst?

Many people believe that frozen pipes always burst, but this is not the case. Not all freezing pipes burst. However, when pipes freeze, the blockage of ice that forms in the pipes may increase the risk of bursting. Frozen pipes only burst when the ice that builds up inside pipes adds considerable pressure for an extended period of time. Copper piping is the most vulnerable to bursting when frozen. PVC and PEX pipes are also susceptible to freezing but do not always burst.

How Cold Does It Have to Be for Pipes to Freeze and Burst?

Typically, pipes begin to freeze when the outside temperature is at least 32 degrees Fahrenheit. But that doesnt mean your pipes will burst every time outside temperature falls to 32 degrees Fahrenheit. It will depend on whether your pipes are insulated and where theyre located. Insulated pipes that are located in warmer areas of your home may not freeze at 32 degrees Fahrenheit. However, pipes that are located along exterior walls or in spaces such as the basement and attic are more susceptible to freezing.

For a pipe to freeze and burst, outside temperatures have to fall below 20 degrees Fahrenheit for at least six consecutive hours. However, this will depend on how quickly the temperature is falling and if the faucets are open. It may take longer for a frozen pipe to burst if the water in the pipe is flowing through an open faucet.

Signs of Frozen Pipes

  • Lack of water coming out of your faucets or fixtures
  • A strong smell coming out of your drains
  • Visible frost on exposed pipes
  • Gurgling sounds
  • Bulging pipes

When you notice that your pipes are frozen, be sure to call an experienced plumber to perform frozen pipe repair.

How to Prevent Pipes from Freezing

Extremely cold weather can be tough on your pipes, which is why you should take precautionary measures to protect your pipes against cold temperatures. Preventing frozen pipes is the best strategy to avoid expensive repairs. One way to prevent pipes from freezing is to insulate exposed pipes, especially those residing in places such as basements, garages, attics, or exterior walls.

Another way to keep your pipes from freezing is to seal any cracks and openings around your piping to keep cold air out.

You can also prevent pipes from freezing by turning on faucets that are connected to exposed piping and letting them drip slightly. Keeping faucets open prevents pressure from building up, thereby slowing down the freezing process.

Are You in Need of Pipe Replacement? Call Mr. Rooter Plumbing to Help You

Perhaps your frozen pipes have burst, your pipes are corroded or theyre damaged due to soil shifting. Whatever the cause of pipe damage, its important to hire an experienced plumber to help you with pipe replacement or pipe repair. When youre in need of pipe replacement or pipe repair in your home or business, you can count on Mr. Rooter Plumbing to get the job done.

Recent News

07

February

Dos and Don'ts of Drain Cleaning

When it comes to taking care of your drains, there are a few things you…

Dos and Don'ts of Drain Cleaning
24

January

How Does Hydro Jetting Works

So, you've got a clog that needs fixing. There are several ways to go about…

How Does Hydro Jetting Works
17

January

Where Should You Run Your Plumbing Pipes?

If you are remodeling your home, or even will, one of the jobs that usually…

Where Should You Run Your Plumbing Pipes?
04

January

Benefits of Choosing a Commercial Plumber

There are several advantages to choosing a commercial plumbing service to handle all your plumbing…

Benefits of Choosing a Commercial Plumber
27

December

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Sewer Line Repair?

With all the rain this year, sewer problems are inching high on the homeowner’s list…

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Sewer Line Repair?
06

December

Common Rental Property Plumbing Issues

Do you ever have an issue with your plumbing? If you own a rental property,…

Common Rental Property Plumbing Issues
29

November

Giving Your Dog a Bath Without Clogging the Drain

When you own a dog, every few days poses a new challenge in grooming. Bathing…

Giving Your Dog a Bath Without Clogging the Drain
22

November

Drain Snake Won’t Go Down Bathtub Drain—Why?

You’ve probably had the experience of a slow drain or your drain that won’t go…

Drain Snake Won’t Go Down Bathtub Drain—Why?
16

November

How to Check a Toilet for Leaks in 4 Simple Steps

If you've ever worked on a toilet, you know it can be very difficult to…

How to Check a Toilet for Leaks in 4 Simple Steps
08

November

The Dangers Of DIY Plumbing Repair

Do-it-yourself plumbing repair is tempting to beginners, but that's a dangerous road to head down.…

The Dangers Of DIY Plumbing Repair