Cold snaps come on fast, and frozen pipes are one of winter’s messiest surprises. If your home or business sits empty when temperatures drop, a freeze can quickly turn into a burst pipe and serious damage. This guide gives clear, practical steps to stop pipes from freezing, shows how to spot trouble early, and explains what to do in an emergency. Use it to protect your property and avoid costly headaches this winter — we cover prevention, warning signs, immediate actions, emergency repair options, typical costs, and winterization tips.
A little preparation goes a long way. Before you leave, apply a few targeted measures to cut the risk of frozen pipes — especially in unheated or exposed areas. Simple, effective precautions include:
Common, reliable choices are foam pipe sleeves, fiberglass wrap, and electric heat tape. Foam sleeves are quick and easy for most exposed runs; fiberglass is good where space is tight; and heat tape helps on runs that stay prone to freezing. Match the method to the pipe location and how severe the exposure is.
Set the thermostat to at least 55°F (13°C) and leave interior doors open so warm air can circulate. For extra protection, shut off the main water supply and open faucets to drain lines — that reduces pressure and removes water that could freeze while you’re gone.
Finding frozen pipes early can keep a small issue from becoming a major repair. Watch for these common signs:
Compare flow at several faucets around the property. If one area has weak flow while others are normal, that run may be frozen. Also inspect exposed pipes for frost or ice buildup — that quick visual check often confirms the problem.
Pipes in unheated zones — basements, attics, crawl spaces, exterior walls, and garages — are most at risk. Runs along outside walls or under windows are also vulnerable. Identifying these routes helps you target insulation and other protections where they’ll do the most good.
If you find frozen pipes, act quickly but safely to limit damage. Take these immediate steps:
Find the main shut-off — usually near the water meter or where the line enters the building — and turn it clockwise to close. After shutting off the water, open faucets throughout the building to drain remaining water and relieve pressure so thawed water can exit safely.
Warm the frozen section slowly and carefully. A hairdryer, heat lamp, or a portable space heater (used safely) works well — move heat from the faucet toward the frozen spot. Never use an open flame. If heating doesn’t work, you spot any leaks, or you can’t find the freeze, call a professional plumber — attempting repairs on a burst pipe can make things worse.
Pither Plumbing provides full emergency repair services for frozen and burst pipes. Our team responds quickly to limit damage and get your water back on safely — 24/7.
We’re available around the clock so you don’t have to wait when minutes matter. Using video camera inspection and other diagnostic tools, we locate problems fast and recommend the right, cost-effective repair.
Trenchless repair avoids major digging, speeds up repairs, and often lowers restoration costs. When the situation allows, we use trenchless techniques to fix damaged lines with minimal impact to your yard or building.
Costs depend on how much damage there is and how accessible the pipes are. A small frozen section may be inexpensive to repair, while a burst line that damages walls or flooring increases the total bill. Knowing likely ranges helps you plan for repairs or an insurance claim.
In Longview, TX, frozen pipe repairs commonly run between $300 and $1,500 depending on severity and access. Labor, parts, and any cleanup affect the final price.
Many homeowners policies cover sudden damage from frozen or burst pipes, but coverage varies. Review your policy and talk with your insurance agent to confirm what’s covered, any deductibles, and whether certain preventative steps are required to keep coverage valid.
Winterizing before a long trip or before the season hits lowers the risk of freeze-related damage. These steps protect your water lines both while you’re away and long term:
An effective winter plumbing checklist should include these items:
For outdoor faucets, disconnect hoses, drain the lines, and add insulated faucet covers. For commercial systems, schedule a professional winterization check so boilers, pumps, and exposed piping meet industry best practices and won’t fail in a freeze.
Service | Description | Cost Estimate |
Frozen Pipe Repair | Repairing pipes that have frozen or burst | $300 – $1,500 |
Emergency Plumbing | 24/7 rapid response for urgent plumbing problems | Varies based on service |
Trenchless Repair | Non-invasive pipe repair option to reduce disruption | $1,000 – $3,000 |
This table summarizes common services we provide with typical cost ranges. Use it as a quick reference when planning repairs or comparing options.
In short: take basic precautions, watch for warning signs, and act quickly if a freeze happens. If you face frozen or burst pipes, Pither Plumbing is ready to help with fast, professional emergency service and practical, long-term solutions.
Frozen pipes can cause lasting damage. When water freezes it expands, which can crack or weaken pipe walls. Those cracks may not fail immediately but can lead to leaks and bigger problems later. If a burst goes unnoticed, it can cause structural damage to walls, floors, and foundations and promote mold growth — all of which increase repair costs.
Do a walk-through and look for pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, and crawl spaces, and for runs along exterior walls or under windows. Use a temperature gauge during cold snaps and seal drafts where cold air can reach pipes. Insulate those lines to reduce the risk of freezing.
A good winterization kit should include foam pipe insulation, heat tape, insulated faucet covers, and a wrench for shutting off water supplies. Add plumbing-safe antifreeze if needed and a thermometer to monitor vulnerable areas. Having these items ready makes quick winter prep easier.
Inspect your plumbing at least once a year, ideally in the fall before cold weather arrives. Check for wear, leaks, or gaps in insulation. Consider a professional inspection every few years to catch issues early and keep systems reliable.
Ignoring signs of frozen pipes can lead to serious consequences: burst pipes, extensive water damage, structural repairs, and mold. Small damage can rapidly grow into larger, costlier problems. Regular checks and prompt action can save you time and money.
Yes — space heaters can help if used safely. Place them near exposed pipes in vulnerable areas, but never leave them unattended and follow all safety guidelines to avoid fire risk. Combined with insulation and proper thermostat settings, heaters can be an effective part of your freeze-prevention plan.
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