Burst or Leaking Pipes: A Houston Homeowner's Guide

Immediate Actions: Stop the Water Flow

A burst or leaking pipe is a water damage emergency. Your first priority is to stop the water immediately.

Locate your main water shut-off valve
- Usually found where the water line enters your home (basement, crawl space, or garage)
- In Houston, this is typically near the front of the house or in the utility closet
- If you can't find it, check under the kitchen sink or in the front flower bed
- Turn the valve clockwise (righty-tighty) to shut off all water to your home
Call for help if needed
- If you cannot locate the main valve or cannot turn it off, call a plumber immediately
- Every minute counts when water is actively pouring into your home
Turn off your water heater (if you have time)
- Switch the thermostat to "Off" on gas heaters, or flip the breaker for electric heaters
- This prevents damage to the unit and waste of hot water

Minimize Water Damage

Move electronics and valuables to higher ground immediately
Turn off electricity to affected areas if water is near outlets or appliances
Open windows and doors to increase ventilation
Place towels and buckets to catch dripping water
Turn on bathroom and kitchen faucets to allow trapped air to escape (prevents more bursting)

Identifying the Problem

Frozen Pipes (Winter months): If temperatures dropped below freezing, your pipes may be frozen rather than burst. Thaw them slowly with warm (not boiling) water applied to the affected area. Never use direct flame.

Leaking Joints: Water spraying from connection points can sometimes be tightened temporarily with a pipe wrench, but this is a temporary fix only.

Houston-Specific Challenges

Many older Houston homes (especially in Montrose, the Heights, and near Rice Village) have galvanized steel pipes installed in the 1950s-1970s. These corrode from the inside out and are prone to failure. If your home is over 40 years old and you're experiencing frequent leaks, you may need repiping—a more extensive but lasting solution.

Winter freeze preparation is critical in Houston. The 2021 winter storm caused hundreds of thousands of burst pipes across the city. Even though Houston winters are mild, single-digit temperatures do occur. Start protecting your pipes in late November:

Install foam insulation sleeves on exposed pipes
Leave cabinet doors open in kitchens and bathrooms to allow warm air circulation
On the coldest nights, let faucets drip slowly to relieve pressure in pipes

When to Call a Pro

Call immediately if:

You cannot locate or shut off the main water valve
Water is actively spraying or pouring (don't wait)
You smell natural gas along with the leak
Water is near electrical panels or outlets
You see rust, corrosion, or multiple leaks (systemic problem)

Consider a plumber within 24 hours if:

The leak is slow but persistent
You discover a burst or severely damaged section of pipe
You have galvanized pipes and are concerned about your home's age

DIY might work only for:

Temporary tightening of a slightly loose connection (use a pipe wrench)
Applying plumber's putty to a pinhole leak (very temporary—24 hours max)