Winterizing Your Pipes: Preventing the #1 Cause of November Water Damage

Nov 1, 2025 | Blog

Winterizing Your Pipes: Preventing the #1 Cause of November Water Damage 

The arrival of November means it’s time to officially prepare your home for freezing temperatures. While major storms like hurricanes often get the most attention, the single most frequent cause of massive indoor water damage during the late fall and winter is a burst pipe. 

When water freezes, it expands, placing incredible pressure on pipes, even steel ones. This pressure eventually causes the pipe to rupture, often leading to a torrent of water that can cause tens of thousands of dollars in damage within minutes. 

Here is your essential guide to pipe winterization and what to do if the worst happens. 

Prevention is Key (Winterizing Your Plumbing) 

The best cleanup is the one you never need. Focus your efforts on the most vulnerable areas of your home. Examples would be exterior spigots, pipes in cold places, plumbing in cabinets, etc. 

The Emergency Checklist for a Burst Pipe 

If you experience a sudden loss of water pressure, hear rushing water behind a wall, or see water spots on your ceiling, you may have a burst pipe. Immediate action is critical to minimize damage. 

  1. Locate and Shut Off the Main Water Valve 
  • Find It: Your main water shutoff valve is usually located where the water line enters your home (e.g., basement, near the water meter, or in a utility closet). 
  • Turn It Off: Turning off the main valve stops all water flow to the house, halting the flood and stopping the damage in its tracks. 
  1. Power Down and Call a Plumber
  • Safety First: If the flooding is extensive, do not wade into the water until you have shut off power to the affected area at the main electrical panel. Water and electricity are a deadly combination. 
  • Plumber: Call a licensed plumber -Royal Plus Services (866) 404-7587- to assess and repair the broken pipe.  
  1. Call Royal Plus Disaster Cleanup (866) 404-7587

Once the water source is secured, the restoration race begins. The goal is to dry the structure out as quickly as possible. 

Don’t let a small drop in temperature lead to a disastrous flood. Take a moment this November to winterize your pipes. If a burst pipe does cause damage, remember that your rapid response, combined with our professional expertise, is the fastest route back to a safe and dry home. 

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