Skip to main content
As temperatures in Massachusetts drop, both homeowners and business owners face one of winter’s most common — and expensive — headaches: burst pipes. A single burst pipe can cause thousands of dollars in water damage, not to mention the stress of emergency repairs and insurance claims. At Encharter, we want to help you avoid that scenario altogether.
Check out our helpful tips to protect your home, your business, your wallet, and your peace of mind this upcoming winter. If you have any questions, contact our office at or complete our online quote form today!
🧊 Why Pipes Freeze
When the temperature drops below 32°F (0°C), water inside your pipes can freeze and expand. This pressure buildup can cause even sturdy pipes to crack or burst — especially in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, garages, and attics.
🏠 Steps to Winterize Your Building
1. Insulate Exposed Pipes
Wrap pipes in foam insulation sleeves or heat tape — especially those along exterior walls, in crawl spaces, or under sinks. Hardware stores carry easy DIY options that make a big difference.
2. Seal Drafts and Cracks
Cold air sneaks in through gaps around windows, doors, and cable or plumbing entry points. Use caulk or weather stripping to seal leaks and keep the warmth in.
3. Keep a Steady Temperature
Set your thermostat to at least 55°F, even if you’re away from home. Consistent heat helps prevent pipes from freezing, especially in older homes.
4. Open Cabinet Doors
When it’s extremely cold, open the doors under your kitchen and bathroom sinks to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes.
5. Let Faucets Drip
A slow trickle of water keeps pressure from building up inside pipes. This simple step can prevent freezing during severe cold snaps.
6. Disconnect Outdoor Hoses
Drain and store garden hoses. Shut off outdoor water valves and open exterior spigots to let any remaining water drain out.
7. Know Where Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve Is
If a pipe does burst, shutting off the water quickly can minimize damage before help arrives.
🧰 Bonus Tip: Schedule a Maintenance Check
Consider hiring a professional to inspect your plumbing system and heating unit before winter hits. Preventive maintenance often costs far less than emergency repairs — and many insurance companies appreciate proactive home care.
💧 If a Pipe Does Freeze or Burst
Turn off the water immediately, open nearby faucets to relieve pressure, and call a licensed plumber. Then, contact your insurance agent to review your coverage and file a claim if needed.
At Encharter, we’re here to help protect what matters most — your home, your business, and your family. If you’d like to review your homeowners policy or add extra coverage for water damage, contact us today for a free consultation.
Stay warm, stay safe, and winterize wisely!
Chat with an Encharter agent about your insurance today:
Complete our online quote form
Sources:
https://www.bhg.com/home-improvement/advice/maintenance-repair/how-to-prevent-frozen-pipes/
https://protectyourpipes.org/frozen-pipes
https://www.travelers.com/resources/home/maintenance/how-to-prevent-frozen-pipes
