Frozen pipes are one of the most common winter emergencies in UK homes. They often strike overnight or when you are away, and the damage can be serious. What catches people out is this. Pipes do not usually burst while frozen. They burst when they start to thaw.
Understanding why frozen pipes burst makes it much easier to prevent the problem in the first place.
Why Pipes Freeze in Cold Weather
Water expands when it freezes. Inside a pipe, that expansion creates pressure. The ice itself blocks the pipe, and pressure builds up behind it as more water freezes.
Pipes in lofts, garages, basements, and external walls are at the most significant risk. These areas get colder faster and are often poorly insulated. When temperatures drop below zero for several hours, the risk rises quickly.
Why Frozen Pipes Burst When They Thaw
The real damage usually happens during thawing. As the ice melts, water begins to flow again. The pressure releases suddenly, forcing water through cracks that formed while the pipe was frozen.
At this point, water can discharge rapidly. Many homeowners only realise there is a problem once ceilings stain, floors flood, or water starts dripping through light fittings.
How to Stop Pipes from Freezing
A few simple steps can significantly reduce the risk.
Insulate exposed pipes
Lag pipes in lofts, garages, and cupboards near external walls. Pipe insulation is cheap and effective.
Keep heating on low
During cold spells, keep your heating set to a low constant temperature, even overnight. This keeps pipes warm enough to avoid freezing.
Open cupboard doors
Allow warm air to circulate pipes under sinks and in enclosed spaces.
Fix small leaks early
A slow drip increases the chance of freezing—repair leaks before winter sets in.
Drain outside taps
Turn off external water supplies and drain taps before the first hard frost.
What to Do If a Pipe Freezes
If you suspect a pipe has frozen, act carefully.
Turn off the water supply at the stopcock.
Open the cold tap connected to the frozen pipe.
Warm the pipe slowly by wrapping it in towels and immersing it in warm water.
Do not use open flames or blowtorches.
If a pipe has already burst, turn off the water immediately and contact a professional.
Why Acting Fast Matters
Burst pipes cause extensive water damage in a short time. Water can spread through floors, walls, insulation, and electrical systems. The longer it sits, the worse the damage becomes.
Quick action limits repair costs and reduces the risk of mould developing later.
When to Call for Help
If frozen or burst pipes have caused water damage, professional support makes a difference. Drying and restoring a property in winter takes specialist equipment and experience.
ServiceMaster Restore provides emergency water damage restoration across the UK. Our teams respond quickly, assess the damage, and begin drying and repair work immediately.
If you are dealing with frozen or burst pipes, call 0800 021 3970, or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business to see how we can help today.
