The cost of a frozen pipe repair depends on whether the pipe has burst. Thawing an intact pipe is a short job. A burst pipe means finding the break, replacing a section, and often repairing drywall and water damage, which can cost far more than the plumbing itself. Close the main water valve immediately if a pipe bursts.
- What to do right now
- What affects the repair cost
- Water damage and insurance
- How to prevent frozen pipes
Every Canadian winter, cold snaps freeze pipes in thousands of homes. A frozen pipe is an inconvenience. A burst pipe can flood a basement in minutes. Here is what affects the cost of repairing frozen pipes, what to do right away, and how to prevent it from happening again.
What to do right now
- If water is leaking: close the main water shut-off valve immediately, then turn off electricity in the affected area if water is near outlets or the panel.
- If no water comes out of a tap: the pipe is probably frozen but may not be broken. Open the tap to relieve pressure.
- Warm the area gently with a hair dryer or space heater kept at a safe distance. Never use an open flame.
- Call a plumber if you can’t find the frozen section, if the pipe is inside a wall, or if you see cracks or bulges.
What affects the repair cost
| Situation | What the plumber does | Cost impact |
|---|---|---|
| Frozen, not burst, easy access | Thaws the pipe, checks for damage | Lowest |
| Frozen inside a wall | Locates and thaws, may open the wall | Moderate |
| Burst pipe, easy access | Replaces the damaged section | Moderate |
| Burst pipe inside a wall or ceiling | Opens the finish, repairs, tests | High, plus drywall and drying |
| Night or weekend emergency | Any of the above | Premium rate |
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When a pipe bursts, the plumbing is often the smallest part of the bill. Drying, mould prevention, drywall, flooring and paint can add up quickly. Take photos, keep invoices, and contact your home insurer quickly. Many policies cover sudden water damage, but some exclude damage caused by lack of heat if the home was left unattended. Check your policy.
How to prevent frozen pipes
- Insulate pipes along exterior walls, in garages, crawl spaces and attics.
- Seal air leaks near pipes, such as around dryer vents and sill plates.
- Close and drain outdoor faucets before winter.
- Keep the heat on when you travel and ask someone to check the home.
- During extreme cold, open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls.
- Consider improving insulation in problem areas.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to fix a frozen pipe?
It depends on whether the pipe burst and how easy it is to reach. Thawing an intact pipe is a short job; a burst pipe inside a wall costs much more, especially with water damage.
What should I do if a pipe bursts?
Close the main water shut-off valve immediately, cut power near the water if needed, and call a plumber.
Does home insurance cover burst pipes?
Many policies cover sudden water damage, but some exclude damage when the home was left without heat. Check your policy.
How can I prevent pipes from freezing?
Insulate exposed pipes, seal air leaks, drain outdoor faucets and keep the heat on while you’re away.
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Get my free quotes →Estimations.pro is a free matching service for homeowners in Montreal and nearby, and does not perform the work. Prices vary by contractor, job and season: the only reliable number is a written quote for your job.