Why Frozen Pipes Are Dangerous
When temperatures fall below 32°F, the water inside your plumbing system begins to freeze, especially in exposed areas like attics, crawl spaces, and exterior walls. As water freezes, it expands with tremendous force—enough to crack copper, PVC, or even PEX pipes.
The real danger comes when the ice begins to thaw. As water starts to flow again, it rushes through weakened or split sections of pipe, leading to leaks or full bursts that can cause extensive water damage inside walls or under floors.
In Northwest Arkansas, where winter nights often dip below freezing but days warm up again, these freeze-thaw cycles can create the perfect conditions for pipe damage.
How Frozen Pipes Burst After Thawing
It’s not always the freezing itself that causes the rupture—it’s the pressure that builds between the frozen blockage and the closed faucet. When ice blocks the flow, water pressure increases behind it. The pipe stretches under that pressure, weakening its structure.
Once the ice melts, that pressure has nowhere to go but through any cracks or weak points in the pipe. Sometimes homeowners think everything is fine when water starts flowing again, only to discover hours later that a small, slow leak has started inside the wall or ceiling.
Common signs that a pipe may have burst after thawing include:
- Wet drywall or ceilings
- Low water pressure
- Water spots on flooring or carpet
- Mold or musty smells
- Unexpected spikes in the water bill
Common Locations for Frozen Pipes in Northwest Arkansas Homes
Certain areas of a home are more prone to freezing than others, especially in older houses or those without adequate insulation. Some of the most common trouble spots include:
- Pipes in unheated crawl spaces or basements
- Exterior wall plumbing, especially on the north side of the home
- Garage and utility room pipes
- Outdoor spigots and hose bibs
- Attic plumbing near roof vents
Homes in Fayetteville, Springdale, and Bella Vista built before the 1990s often lack modern insulation around plumbing, making these pipes particularly vulnerable.
What to Do If You Suspect Frozen Pipes
If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle of water comes out, your pipes may already be frozen. Here’s what to do immediately:
- Turn Off the Main Water Supply:
This helps prevent major flooding if the pipe bursts while thawing. - Open Faucets:
Allow water to flow once it begins to thaw. This helps relieve pressure in the system. - Thaw the Pipe Slowly:
Use a hair dryer or heat lamp to gently warm the frozen section. Never use an open flame, which can damage pipes or start a fire. - Check for Leaks:
Once water starts flowing again, inspect visible pipes for drips or water spots.
If you can’t find the frozen section or suspect a leak behind a wall, contact NWA C & S Plumbing immediately for professional inspection and repair.
How to Prevent Pipes from Freezing
The best way to avoid burst pipes is prevention. A few small changes can make a big difference when temperatures drop.
- Insulate Exposed Pipes
Wrap foam insulation or heating tape around pipes in unheated areas like crawl spaces, garages, and attics. - Seal Air Leaks
Cold air seeping through cracks near windows, doors, and foundation vents can quickly freeze nearby pipes. Use caulk or insulation to seal these gaps. - Let Faucets Drip
Allowing a small trickle of water to run overnight helps relieve pressure and keeps water moving through the pipes. - Open Cabinet Doors
In kitchens or bathrooms along exterior walls, open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around pipes. - Maintain Consistent Indoor Temperatures
Keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F, even when you’re away from home. Sudden drops in indoor temperature are a leading cause of frozen pipes.
After Thawing: Checking for Damage
Once pipes have thawed and water flow returns, don’t assume everything is fine. Perform a thorough inspection:
- Look for damp drywall, baseboards, or flooring.
- Check crawl spaces and under sinks for moisture.
- Listen for dripping or hissing sounds inside walls.
- Monitor your water meter for unexplained movement when all faucets are off.
Even a small leak can waste hundreds of gallons of water and cause costly structural damage. NWA C & S Plumbing uses advanced leak detection tools to identify hidden damage before it becomes a major issue.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
If you notice any of the following, it’s time to call a licensed plumber:
- Frozen pipes you can’t access
- Pipes that have burst or cracked
- Repeated freezing issues in the same area
- Low water pressure after thawing
- Signs of hidden leaks or moisture
NWA C & S Plumbing provides emergency plumbing repair and pipe replacement services across Northwest Arkansas. Our team can locate, repair, and insulate damaged sections quickly, minimizing disruption to your home.
Long-Term Solutions for Cold Weather Protection
To protect your plumbing system for years to come, consider these upgrades:
- Pipe Re-Routing: Move vulnerable pipes away from exterior walls.
- Upgraded Insulation: Improve attic and crawl space insulation to maintain consistent temperatures.
- Smart Leak Detection Systems: Install sensors that alert you to leaks or temperature drops.
- Water Shutoff Valves: Automatic shutoff systems can stop flooding immediately when a burst occurs.
Investing in these preventive measures not only saves money on future repairs but also protects your home’s value.
Why Choose NWA C & S Plumbing
As a trusted, locally owned plumbing company, NWA C & S Plumbing has helped Northwest Arkansas homeowners protect their homes from frozen and burst pipes for years. We understand the region’s unique weather patterns and how quickly cold snaps can cause problems for unprotected plumbing.
Our licensed technicians are experienced in thawing, repairing, and replacing damaged pipes safely and efficiently. Whether you live in Fayetteville, Springdale, Bentonville, Rogers, or Bella Vista, we’re ready to respond when temperatures drop.
We pride ourselves on honest recommendations, quality workmanship, and fast, reliable service you can count on when it matters most.
Conclusion
Yes, frozen pipes can burst even after thawing—and often, the damage happens when homeowners least expect it. The combination of cold winters and hard water in Northwest Arkansas makes prevention and early action essential.
If you suspect frozen pipes or notice leaks after thawing, contact NWA C & S Plumbing right away. Our team will inspect your system, repair any damage, and help prevent future freezing issues so your home stays safe and dry all winter long.