Why Wrap Pipes In Winter? Here Are 5+ Reasons Why.

We know that freezing temps outside can lead to frozen pipes inside. And, where we live, it can sometimes worsen due to a lack of proper insulation.

For example, it’s actually more common for pipelines to freeze in Texas than in Michigan. Because the climate is warmer in Texas, they naturally have less insulation.

So, why wrap pipes in winter after all? In short, it can save you from a wintertime headache.

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Does wrapping pipes keep them from freezing?

You can’t control the temperature but can fight the freeze by wrapping your pipes with insulation. 

Pipelines not exposed to heat are the priority, such as pipes in the attic. But there’s no reason not to wrap them all (no matter if copper or CPVC), especially if they’re poorly insulated.

5 Reasons Why Wrap Pipes in Winter

It’s easy to tell someone to wrap their pipes in the winter, but explaining why is just as important.

Water Is Weird

H2O does a weird thing when it’s frozen. It expands. When it does, it applies tremendous pressure to whatever is holding it (which is why dripping works).

It doesn’t matter if it’s plastic pipes, metal pipes, or glass containers; water-turned-to-ice will explode whatever it’s in.

It’s Not Just the Indoor Pipes

We think of kitchens and bathroom pipes when it feels sketchy outside. But, any lines that carry water are at threat of bursting.

• Outdoor hose bibs
• Swimming pool supply lines
• Water sprinkler lines

Unheated Interior Spaces

Sometimes people think that a little insulation should do as long as a pipe is inside the home. But indoor pipelines are unheated in places we don’t see.

• Basements and crawl spaces
• Attics
• Garages
• Kitchen cabinets 

You likely can’t get to these pipes, but the ones you have access to should have plenty of weather-resistant material.

Don’t Forget the Faucets

You can find faucet covers at any hardware store, and they’re super easy to do DIY-style.

Regardless of where it’s located, imploding plumping is a hassle.

When should I wrap my pipes for the winter?

It only has to be 20° F (-6°C) for pipelines to be at risk. So, you want to prepare before it gets there.

You will want to consider wrapping and winterizing your water pipes when the temp hits 32° F(0°C).

If you’re not at home for whatever reason, keep your thermostat set at around 60°F(15°C). When a house hits around 50°F, it adds dangers to threatened pipes.

There’s No Reason Not To

It’s not expensive or tons of work to wrap pipes up for the winter. You can easily do it yourself, and installing it reduces the chances of a costly disaster.

Heavy-duty insulation materials are the best way to protect your pipelines in freezing weather.

What to do with pipes in freezing temperatures?

You want to head off the disaster of bursting pipes. You first want to focus on protecting your pipes as the temperature drops.

Prevent Frozen Pipes

• Start outside. Follow manufacturing instructions and drain the swimming pool. Do not use antifreeze. It’s a danger to humans, pets, and wildlife.
• Water hose. Disconnect, drain, and store all of your hoses. And don’t forget to turn off and wrap the faucet.
• Insulate the obvious. You will want to install heavy-duty insulation in attics, basements, and crawl spaces.
• Hidden pipelines. Check the cabinets and garage for unprotected water supply lines.

How to keep pipes from freezing without heat?

• Insulate pipes and water tanks to decrease the chances of freezing.
• Maintain an inside temperature of at least 55°F to better prevent frozen pipes.
• Open all of your cabinets and closets. It helps the warmer inside temps to circulate better.
• You will want to run all your faucets, even if it’s a trickle. 
• If you aren’t going to be home during the frigid weather, drain the water system.
• Someone invented heat tape that thaws out pipes.
• Use caulk and insulation to seal up in cold drafts. You want to preserve as much heat inside as possible, especially since you have no heat.
• Close the garage door. It already gets cold during winter, and you want to protect the pipelines running through the garage.

Thawing Thoroughly Frozen Pipes

Welp, if you’re turned on the faucet, and all you see is a trickle, it is likely frozen.

• Don’t turn off the faucet. Keep it open while you’re treating the frozen pipeline. When it melts, it needs a place to flow, and the running water will help melt the ice.
• Apply heat. You can use electric heating pads, a hairdryer, a space heater, and wet hot towels to thaw pipes in winter. DO NOT use blowtorches, propane heaters, or any open flame to thaw frozen pipes. You don’t want to deal with burst pipes and a house fire.
• You’re looking for full water pressure. Thaw until it is entirely restored. If you suspect it’s a pipe you can’t get to yourself, call a licensed plumber.
• Check all the faucets. Check them all. Just because one is working now doesn’t mean all pipes are thawed.

Do you need to wrap gas pipes in cold weather?

Gas lines carry gas and not water, so they’re far, far less likely to freeze.

But it’s never a bad idea to insulate them during extreme cold. Any water around the pipes can freeze and threaten gas lines.

FAQs about Wrapping Pipes