Why Leaks Can Do Even More Damage When It's Freezing In Indianapolis.

by Mark Klingelhoefer | January 22nd,2026

Leaks in your Indianapolis home can be a problem year-round, but the potential for major damage increases significantly when temperatures drop below freezing. When moisture meets cold temperatures and freezing conditions, what seemed like a minor leak can quickly become a major issue. It's always important to address water leaks – and we'll explain why it's even more critical in icy-cold weather.

Water is a Strange Liquid

Water does something most other liquids don't. Usually, liquids and other objects shrink when they become extremely cold. But water actually expands when it freezes, taking up more space. If that expanding water is trapped inside something like a plumbing pipe, it can press on the pipe and its connections with so much force that it will burst. Even if the pipe doesn't burst, the expansion is likely to weaken it. When temperatures plummet, even a small leak can allow water to seep into vulnerable areas, where it can freeze and expand, causing extensive damage.

Where do Winter Leaks Occur?

There are several areas in Indianapolis homes that are especially susceptible to damage from leaks during freezing weather. These are several of the most common:

Pipes And Plumbing

Pipes that travel through spaces that aren't heated – such as attics, crawl spaces, and some basements -- are at high risk of freezing. Cold air entering the space from outside can further reduce the temperature around the pipes. As water inside these pipes freezes and expands, it can burst, causing significant water damage.

Windows and Doors

When there are gaps or leaks around windows and doors, cold air and moisture can enter your home, lowering the indoor temperature and causing drafts. When that moisture freezes, it can warp window frames, damage insulating seals, and even cause glass to crack.

Roof and Gutters

Leaks in roofs and gutters can lead to ice dams, which occur when melting snow refreezes at the edge of a roof. As ice builds up, it prevents meltwater from draining properly, allowing it to seep into the roof, attic, and walls. Leaks can cause structural damage and mold growth.

The Secret is Prevention

Fortunately, homeowners can take steps like these to prevent damage from wintertime leaks.

Keep the Heat On

Maintaining a consistent indoor temperature (even in unoccupied areas) can help prevent pipes from freezing. If you're going to be away for a while, set your thermostat to a temperature that keeps your plumbing warm enough to avoid freezing.

Maintain a Slow Drip

During extremely cold weather, allowing faucets to drip can help prevent pipes from freezing. Moving water is less likely to freeze, so even a slow trickle can reduce the risk of ice forming inside the pipes.

Insulate Pipes

Insulating exposed pipes in unheated areas can help prevent them from freezing and bursting. You can use foam pipe insulation, heat tape, or other insulating materials to keep the pipes warm. When you insulate spaces like attics, crawl spaces, and basements, you help maintain a more stable temperature.

Seal Leaks and Cracks

Before winter sets in, inspect your home for potential leaks or gaps around doors, windows, roofs, and the foundation. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal these areas and prevent cold air and moisture from entering.

Watch the Roof

Keep your roof and gutters clear of snow and debris to prevent ice dams from forming. Make sure your downspouts are properly angled to direct water away from the house, and consider installing heating cables to melt snow in problem areas.

When You Need a Pro's Help

As we noted, leaks may start as a nuisance but can quickly cause serious damage to your home and property, especially during freezing weather. That's why it's always wise to get the expertise of a skilled local plumber like the team at Indiana Leak Detection. Your neighbors have trusted our help with the full range of plumbing projects for many years, and we're ready to help you melt away your freeze-related problems! You can reach out to us for leak detection at (317) 497-0024 or visit us online at indianaleak.com to schedule an appointment.