San Antonio does not freeze often, and that is exactly why freezes cause so much damage here. Pipes in attics, exterior walls and outdoor hose bibs are rarely protected, and a few hours below freezing can split them. We thaw, find every split and repair them before water damage spreads.
The causeWhy it happens
Water expands as it freezes, and the pressure builds between the ice and a closed valve until the pipe or fitting splits. Often the split is not where the ice formed. The damage stays hidden while the pipe is frozen and then appears all at once when it thaws. Outdoor hose bibs, pipes in uninsulated attics, lines along exterior walls and plumbing in garages are most vulnerable.
DiagnosisWhat we check first
- 01Every exposed section
- We trace the lines that froze and check each fitting, since a freeze rarely damages only one spot.
- 02Pressure test after repair
- Once repairs are made, we pressurize and watch for drops that would reveal another split.
- 03Hose bibs and backflow devices
- These commonly crack internally and leak inside the wall when used.
- 04Insulation and exposure
- We point out pipes that need insulation or rerouting before the next cold snap.
The optionsWhich repair fits, and when
We lay out the choices plainly, explain what each involves and leave the decision with you.
Thaw and repair
Lines are frozen but not yet leaking. We thaw safely and inspect before restoring pressure.
Split pipe repair
A section burst. We cut it out, replace it, and check the rest of the run.
Freeze protection upgrades
Insulating attic lines, replacing hose bibs with frost-free versions and rerouting vulnerable runs.
Local conditionsFrozen Pipe Repair on the west side of San Antonio
The February 2021 winter storm showed how unprepared most San Antonio homes are for a sustained freeze. Attic lines, exterior walls and outdoor plumbing split across the city. Frost-free hose bibs, pipe insulation in attics and knowing where your main shutoff is are the most practical protection for the next one.
From the jobNew PVC line exposed in an excavated trench
A few things that help
If a pipe has burst, close the main water shutoff right away, often at the meter box near the street or where the line enters the house. Do not use an open flame to thaw pipes.
QuestionsCommon questions about frozen pipe repair
How do I prevent pipes from freezing?
Insulate exposed pipes, disconnect hoses, cover hose bibs, open cabinet doors on exterior walls and let a faucet drip during a hard freeze.
What should I do if a pipe bursts?
Shut off the main water valve immediately, then call us. Turn off the water heater if the cold supply to it is closed.
Can frozen pipes thaw without bursting?
Sometimes. But pipes that froze should be checked under pressure before you assume they are fine.
Related workServices that often go with it
Talk it through with usOpen 7 AM to 11 PM every day. Se habla español.
(210) 761-4788