Why Frozen Pipes Aren’t Just a Winter Problem
What Every Homeowner Should Know
April 24, 2025
When most people think about frozen or burst pipes, they picture icy winter mornings and snow-covered roofs. But here’s the truth: frozen pipe damage can happen anytime temperatures drop suddenly — even in early spring or during unexpected cold snaps in the fall.
At MCK Construction and Remodel, we’ve seen firsthand how surprise temperature drops can wreak havoc on plumbing systems that weren’t prepared. Here’s what you need to know and how to protect your home.
Why Pipes Freeze (Even When It's Not Winter)
Pipe freezing happens when water inside your plumbing system reaches 0°C (32°F) or below. This doesn’t just happen in the dead of winter — it can occur:
- During cold nights in early spring or late fall
- In homes that are vacant or under renovation
- In poorly insulated walls, crawl spaces, or garages
- In areas with unpredictable weather patterns
When water freezes, it expands. That expansion creates pressure inside the pipe, and if the pressure becomes too great, the pipe can burst — leading to thousands of dollars in water damage.
The Hidden Cost of Frozen Pipes
A burst pipe can release hundreds of gallons of water in a matter of minutes. Besides plumbing repair costs, homeowners often face:
- Damaged drywall and flooring
- Mold growth in walls and insulation
- Electrical hazards
- Extended disruptions to daily life
At MCK Construction and Remodel, we’ve helped many families repair this kind of damage — and trust us, prevention is always easier and cheaper.
How to Prevent Freezing Pipe Damage — All Year Long
You don’t need to wait for a winter storm warning to take action. Here are some practical steps to safeguard your home:
Insulate vulnerable pipes – Pay attention to pipes in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, garages, and attics.
Seal drafts – Cold air creeping in through cracks or holes near pipes can lower temperatures quickly.
Install heat tape or pipe sleeves – These provide extra protection for pipes that are hard to access or can’t be relocated.
Keep the thermostat steady – Don’t let your home’s temperature dip too low at night or when you’re away.
Let faucets drip slightly – This keeps water moving and reduces the chance of freezing.
Renovating or Building? Future-Proof Your Plumbing
If you’re planning a remodel or new construction project, it’s the perfect time to think ahead. At MCK Construction and Remodel, we help homeowners:
- Reroute vulnerable piping
- Add insulation behind walls
- Install smart leak detectors
- Upgrade outdated plumbing systems
These small choices during your project can make a big difference in protecting your investment for years to come.
Need a Plumbing Assessment or Remodel Help?
Whether you’ve already experienced pipe damage or want to be proactive, our team is here to help. From minor repairs to full-scale remodeling, MCK Construction and Remodel provides quality craftsmanship and peace of mind.
Contact us today for a consultation and stay ahead of the unexpected.
