What to Do If Your Pipes Burst in Austin During a Freeze

Burst Pipes in Austin During a Freeze: What to Do

The February 2021 winter storm was a wake-up call for Austin homeowners who had never worried about frozen pipes. Austin's homes are often built with pipes in unconditioned attics, crawl spaces, and exterior walls — designed for 95°F, not 10°F.

Immediate Steps When Pipes Burst

Step 1: Shut off the main water supply

Know where your main shutoff is before an emergency. In Austin, it's typically at the water meter (at the street) or at a main shutoff inside (near water heater or utility room). Turning off the main stops flow and limits damage.

Step 2: Open a faucet

After shutting off the main, open a faucet downstream from the suspected burst — this relieves pressure and allows remaining water to drain.

Step 3: Document everything

Photograph and video all water damage before you do anything else. This is your insurance claim documentation.

Step 4: Contain the water

Towels, mops, and wet/dry vacuum. Get water off floors as fast as possible — 24 hours is the threshold before mold begins growing in Austin's climate.

Step 5: Call a plumber

During Austin freeze events, plumber wait times can be 1–5 days. Call immediately. While waiting, try temporary pipe repair tape for accessible pipes if water flow isn't fully stopped.

Finding an Emergency Plumber During Austin Freeze Events

During the 2021 freeze, many Austin homeowners waited days for plumbers who were overwhelmed. Build a list now:

Keep 2–3 licensed plumber numbers in your phone

Note 24/7 emergency lines specifically

Preventing Future Burst Pipes

Know how to shut off your main water supply

During freezes: drip faucets at exterior walls

Add pipe insulation to attic and exterior wall pipe runs

Seal attic access doors to prevent cold air entry

Find licensed emergency plumbers in Austin through ContractorLeads101.