What Causes Water Line Breaks During Temperature Shifts?
In Broomfield, CO, the temperatures swing between hot summers and freezing winters. These dramatic fluctuations can put a significant strain on your home’s plumbing system, potentially leading to frozen pipes, water line breaks and other plumbing problems.
At Garvin’s Plumbing and Sewer, we understand how Broomfield’s climate can affect your plumbing and are here to help you prevent these issues before they cause serious damage.
In this blog, we’ve broken down how each season affects your plumbing, what causes water line breaks and how you can protect your home all year long.
Summer: High Heat And Soil Stress
While frozen pipes aren’t an issue in summer, extreme heat can still wreak havoc on your water lines. Prolonged drought conditions can dry out Broomfield’s expansive clay soil, causing it to contract and shift. This ground movement can lead to underground pipe misalignment, cracked or stressed water lines and foundation-related plumbing damage.
Below are some summer plumbing tips you can use to help stay ahead of pipe problems:
- Monitor water usage to prevent overloading aging pipes
- Inspect your irrigation system for hidden leaks
- Schedule an inspection if you notice any water pressure issues
Fall: A Crucial Season For Pipe Leak Prevention
In Broomfield, fall doesn’t bring just one type of weather — temperatures can swing dramatically between sunny afternoons and frosty mornings. These fluctuations might not seem extreme, but even minor freeze-thaw cycles can weaken pipes and expose vulnerabilities.
Pipes that have already experienced stress from summer ground shifts may now be more prone to cracking as temperatures drop overnight and rise again during the day.
Preventive maintenance in autumn can save you from winter repairs. By addressing small issues now, you can avoid major pipe damage when the real cold sets in. Here’s a list of what to do in the fall to protect your plumbing:
- Inspect pipe insulation and replace worn material to protect against early freezes
- Drain and shut off outdoor hoses and sprinklers to prevent trapped water from freezing
- Seal exterior gaps where cold air might reach indoor pipes
- Schedule a plumbing inspection before temperatures drop more consistently
Winter: The Season Of Frozen Pipes And Breaks
When temperatures plummet in Broomfield, frozen pipes become a common plumbing problem. Water expands as it freezes, which places pressure on the pipe walls — often resulting in cracks or bursts. Key winter plumbing risks include:
- Frozen water in exposed or uninsulated pipes
- Cracks caused by expanding ice
- Water line breaks when thawing begins
Don’t fear — there are steps you can take to protect your pipes in winter:
- Insulate exposed pipes in attics, basements and crawl spaces
- Seal cold drafts near plumbing lines
- Keep a slow trickle of water flowing during deep freezes
- Maintain a consistent indoor temperature
If you notice a pipe problem developing, don’t wait to take action. Not only can we help provide proactive plumbing inspections, but we’re also here to deliver reliable repairs when you need them.
Spring: Thawing Brings Surprise Leaks
Spring weather can feel like a relief, but it brings plumbing problems of its own. The freeze-thaw cycle continues, especially in early spring, creating pressure shifts in your plumbing.
As ice melts inside weakened pipes, the stress often reveals cracks or previously unnoticed leaks. Additionally, Colorado’s clay-heavy soil can shift as it absorbs moisture, placing extra pressure on underground water lines. Signs of spring plumbing issues:
- Unexplained drops in water pressure
- Wet spots on walls or floors
- Gurgling or hissing sounds in the pipes
If you spot any of these symptoms, schedule a professional inspection. Garvin’s Plumbing and Sewer offers plumbing repairs and maintenance to help you catch problems early — before they become emergencies.
Choose Garvin’s Plumbing And Sewer To Take Care Of Your Plumbing
Broomfield’s unpredictable weather puts your plumbing to the test, but you don’t have to face it alone. Whether you’re battling burst pipes in January or inspecting your plumbing in September, Garvin’s Plumbing and Sewer is here for Broomfield homeowners.
Our team understands the demands of the local climate and how it impacts your home’s systems. We can help you prevent, detect and repair temperature-related plumbing issues year-round. Schedule a plumbing inspection today to prepare your home for the next freeze or heatwave.
