Can Pipes Freeze and Not Burst?
- Morgan Williams
- Aug 22, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 24, 2025
Pipes freezing in winter is one of the biggest risks for property owners, but not every frozen pipe ends in disaster. In this post, we break down what really happens when pipes freeze, why some burst and others do not, and how Adiabat’s advanced pipe freeze model helps predict and prevent costly damage before it happens.
Why Do Pipes Burst When They Freeze?
When water inside a pipe freezes, it expands in volume by about 9%. This expansion puts pressure on the pipe walls, but the real danger comes from the pressure that builds between the ice blockage and a closed faucet. If the pressure exceeds what pipes can handle, the result is a pipe burst.
Some key details about why this happens:
Expansion of water: Ice takes up more space than liquid water, stressing pipe walls.
Pressure buildup: A blockage creates pressure that can exceed 2,000 psi in extreme cases, far more than residential pipes are built to withstand.
Not always immediate: Sometimes pipes freeze and thaw without damage, but each freeze-thaw cycle increases the risk of pipe burst.
Water damage from a pipe burst is one of the most common insurance claims during winter, with the average repair cost ranging from $5,000 to $7,000, not including long-term mold or structural issues.
Can Pipes Freeze Without Bursting?
Yes, pipes can freeze and not burst, but several factors influence the outcome:
Pipe Material: PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) pipes can flex and handle expansions better, while copper and PVC are more rigid and prone to bursting.
Location of the Freeze: Pipes that freeze in areas with space to expand to where pressure can dissipate may not burst
Water flow: Letting a slow drip of water run through your faucets keeps water circulating inside the pipes, making it harder for ice blockage to fully form.
Even if a pipe doesn’t burst during one freeze, repeated freeze–thaw cycles can weaken the pipe over time, making a future pipe burst more likely. In short, while it is possible for frozen pipes to thaw without bursting, the risk is always present, and prevention is the safest strategy.
What To Do If Your Pipes Freeze
If your pipes freeze but haven't burst yet, act quickly:
Turn off the main water supply to avoid catastrophic flooding if the pipe splits
Open facets, while water main is off, to relieve built-up pressure
Apply gentle heat with a space heater, heating pad, or warm towels. Never use open flames, which can cause fires or damage pipes
Use heated tape if available for direct application to the pipe
Call a plumber if you cannot find or access the frozen section safely
Taking these steps can reduce the risk of a pipe burst and save thousands in repair costs.
How To Prevent a Pipe Burst
Want detailed strategies to stop pipes from freezing in the first place? Check out the full guide on How to Prevent Pipe Freeze for step-by-step prevention methods.
In summary, the best way to protect your home from pipe bursts is through prevention. Property owners can:
Insulate exposed pipes in attics, basements, and crawl spaces
Seal air leaks that allow cold drafts near plumbing
Keep cabinet doors open during extreme cold to let warm air circulate around pipes
Let faucets drip slightly overnight during deep freezes
Maintain indoor heating even when away from home
That’s where Adiabat comes in.
We help clients utilize complex weather and geospatial data, such as our advanced pipe freeze prediction model. Our team of experts translates data into clear, actionable insights tailored to your operations, assets, and infrastructure. Whether you are an insurance provider assessing property risk, a utility managing vulnerable infrastructure, or an asset manager protecting high-value facilities, our experts support your decisions with:
Custom geospatial forecast and spatial analysis
Scenario planning for extreme weather events
Communication-ready graphics to support public safety and internal response
Our work supports clients facing real-world cold-weather challenges, from arctic fronts to sudden freeze-thaw cycles, and helps them take the right steps at the right time.
Read more about preventing frozen pipes and protecting your property during winter using the following sources:
Red Cross - Preventing & Thawing Frozen Pipes: https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/winter-storm/frozen-pipes.html
O&D Custom Homes - Understanding How Water Pipes Freeze: https://www.odcustomhomes.com/education/understanding-how-water-pipes-freeze#:~:text=Water%20expands%20when%20it%20freezes,side%20of%20the%20frozen%20area
EMC Security - Water damage is the most common insurance claim in the U.S.: https://emcsecurity.com/water-damage-is-the-most-common-insurance-claim-in-the-u-s/#:~:text=Average%20cost,reach%20up%20to%20$100k.
Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional plumbing, insurance, or emergency advice. Always consult a licensed plumber or relevant professional for guidance specific to your situation. Adiabat is not responsible for any damage or loss resulting from the use or misuse of the information provided. When in doubt, contact a qualified expert.
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