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What Are the Steps to Winterize a Home to Prevent Pipe Bursts?

Last updated October 23, 2026

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The short answer

Start with Your Outdoor Plumbing

Your outdoor spigots and irrigation system are the first lines of defense. Disconnect and drain all garden hoses, then store them indoors for the season. If you have an in-ground sprinkler system, use its manual drain valve or a compressed air blow-out method to clear the lines of water, which prevents ice blockages that can crack pipes underground or inside walls.

Insulate Vulnerable Indoor Pipes

Pipes running through unheated areas like attics, basements, garages, and crawl spaces are at high risk. Insulating these pipes with foam sleeves or heat tape is an effective barrier against the cold. Focus on sections closest to exterior walls or where cold drafts are common, as these spots freeze first. Even a small gap in insulation can leave a pipe vulnerable to a freeze.

Check the condition of existing insulation and replace any that is damp or damaged. For pipes in extremely cold zones, such as an uninsulated crawl space, applying thermostatically controlled heat tape provides direct warmth. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation to avoid a fire hazard, and never let heat tape overlap itself.

  • Wrap all exposed water pipes in unheated areas with foam pipe insulation.
  • Seal gaps in walls or foundations where cold air reaches pipes with caulk or spray foam.
  • For severe cold, use UL-listed heat tape or cable, installing it straight along the pipe.
  • Pay special attention to pipes near vents, windows, or doors where drafts occur.
  • Insulate both hot and cold water lines, as both can freeze under the right conditions.
  • Consider insulating the shut-off valves themselves to ensure they remain operable.

Seal Air Leaks and Maintain Heat

Cold air entering your home forces your heating system to work harder and chills your plumbing. Inspect the areas where pipes enter your home, such as around dryer vents, cable lines, and foundation cracks. Use caulk or expanding foam to seal these openings from both inside and outside. This simple step keeps your crawl spaces and wall cavities warmer, providing a safer environment for your pipes.

Maintaining a consistent indoor temperature is critical, especially during extreme cold snaps. Set your thermostat to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit, even when you are away. If you have rooms over unheated garages or other risky zones, keep cabinet doors under sinks open to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes. Letting a faucet drip slightly can also relieve pressure in the system.

Prepare for Vacant Homes and Emergencies

Winterizing a vacant home requires more thorough steps. If you will be away, consider having a trusted person check the property regularly. For longer absences, you may need to fully drain your home's plumbing system. This involves shutting off the main water supply and opening every faucet, starting from the top floor and working down, to completely clear the pipes and water heater.

What to Do If a Pipe Bursts

Despite your best efforts, a pipe can still burst. Your first step is always to shut off the main water supply to stop the flow. Then, call a qualified plumber to repair the broken pipe. Simultaneously, you need to address the water flooding into your home to prevent further damage to floors, walls, and belongings.

Water from a burst pipe can cause significant damage quickly. After stopping the water source, contact local water damage pros for water extraction and structural drying. They have the equipment to remove standing water and dry out affected materials. Acting quickly is essential to protect your home's structure. If you plan to file an insurance claim, take pictures of the damage. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

  • Immediately turn off the main water valve to stop the flow.
  • Call a qualified plumber to make the necessary pipe repairs.
  • Contact water damage restoration professionals for water removal and drying.
  • Move valuable items and furniture out of the water's path if it is safe to do so.
  • Take pictures of the damage for a potential insurance claim.
  • Begin drying surfaces with towels to help limit immediate damage.

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Frequently asked questions

At what temperature do pipes typically freeze?

Pipes are at risk of freezing when temperatures drop below 20 degrees Fahrenheit, especially if they are exposed to wind. However, pipes in uninsulated spaces can freeze at higher temperatures during sustained cold periods. Insulation and maintaining heat in your home are your best defenses against this common threshold.

Should I drip all my faucets in cold weather?

Dripping a faucet is a useful tactic for pipes you know are vulnerable, like those on an exterior wall. A slow, steady drip relieves pressure inside the pipe, making it less likely to burst if ice forms. You typically only need to drip the faucet farthest from your main water supply to be effective.

What if I find a frozen pipe that hasn't burst?

If you discover a frozen pipe, keep the faucet open to allow water to flow as it thaws. Apply gentle heat to the frozen section using a hair dryer, heating pad, or towels soaked in warm water. Never use an open flame. If you cannot locate the freeze or thaw it, call a plumber immediately.

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