Why Do Vacation Homes Have More Burst Pipe Problems?

A vacation home is usually unoccupied for weeks or months at a time. During that period, the heating system may be turned down or off entirely to save money. If the temperature inside drops below freezing, water trapped in pipes can freeze and expand, splitting the pipe from the inside.

Even if you leave the heat on at a low setting, a power outage or a faulty thermostat can let temperatures fall. A single cold snap can be enough. Because no one is there to notice the problem, the water continues to leak or spray until the damage is extensive.

Water expands by about 9 percent when it freezes. That expansion creates immense pressure inside the pipe, often causing it to crack or burst. The crack may be tiny at first, but once the ice thaws, water sprays out under pressure, soaking everything nearby.

Pipes in exterior walls, attics, crawl spaces, and unheated garages are most at risk. Even a small gap in insulation can leave a pipe exposed to cold air. If the pipe is old or already weak, the risk of a burst increases further.

If you find a burst pipe, act quickly. Shut off the main water valve immediately to stop the flow. Then call local water damage pros to extract standing water and begin drying the structure. The longer water sits, the more damage it causes.

Document the damage with photos for your insurance claim. Then focus on drying and dehumidifying the affected areas. Local water damage pros can also inspect for hidden moisture and mold growth. They use specialized equipment to dry walls, floors, and ceilings thoroughly.

Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.