Updated 7/2025
Frozen pipes are one of the most common winter disasters for homeowners, and crawl space pipes are especially vulnerable to freezing temperatures. Fortunately, you can prevent crawl space pipes from freezing with just a few easy DIY steps. Taking these precautions now can save you from expensive repairs and headaches later. Follow these five simple steps to protect your home’s pipes this winter.
Why Do Pipes Freeze?
Frozen pipes can cause significant damage to your home. Water freezes when the temperature drops below 32°F (0°C), and as it freezes, it expands by almost 10%. This expansion generates massive pressure inside the pipe — up to 40,000 psi (pounds per square inch). Pipes are not designed to withstand such high pressures, which is why they can burst, resulting in water damage and costly repairs.
Frozen water pipes restrict the flow of water and can burst without warning, causing extensive damage to your home’s structure. When pipes freeze in crawl spaces, the consequences can be even worse due to the exposed, uninsulated environment. To avoid this, it’s essential to take preventative measures.
5 Easy Steps To Prevent Crawl Space Pipes From Freezing
Here are five practical tips you can implement to prevent your crawl space pipes from freezing during the colder months:
- Close Crawl Space Vents
When cold weather arrives, one of the most effective ways to protect crawl space pipes from freezing is to close the crawl space vents. Cold air entering through these vents can chill your pipes and lead to freezing. However, be cautious not to keep vents closed for too long, especially in areas like the Northwest where moisture buildup could result in mold and mildew. Only close vents during extreme cold spells and reopen them when the weather warms up. - Open Cabinet Doors and Use Space Heaters
If your crawl space pipes are located near an exterior wall or inside cabinets (like under the kitchen or bathroom sink), open the cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes. In extremely cold weather, you can place a small space heater near the cabinet to keep the temperature above freezing, preventing your crawl space pipes from freezing. - Let Faucets Drip
A simple yet effective technique to prevent frozen pipes is to allow a small stream of water to run through the pipes. Even a slow drip can help keep the water flowing and prevent freezing. While this is a quick fix for particularly cold days, it’s essential to use this strategy sparingly to avoid wasting water. - Use Heating Tape
Heating tape is a great solution to prevent crawl space pipes from freezing. This electric tape wraps around the pipes and keeps them warm by emitting low levels of heat. Some types of heating tape are manual and need to be activated when temperatures drop, while others automatically turn on and off based on the temperature. This is a more energy-efficient solution that can keep your pipes safe without constant monitoring. - Seal Cracks and Gaps
Inspect your crawl space and seal any cracks or holes around pipes that might allow cold air to reach them. Cold drafts can easily freeze exposed pipes, especially when they are located near exterior walls or vents. Use caulk, spray foam, or weatherstripping to fill in gaps, ensuring that no cold air gets inside to freeze your crawl space pipes.
Professional Solutions To Prevent Frozen Pipes
In addition to these DIY solutions, we recommend that you consider professional crawl space insulation services to further protect your crawl space and prevent pipes from freezing.
Crawl Space Insulation
The most effective way to prevent crawl space pipes from freezing is by insulating your crawl space. Proper insulation can regulate the temperature, keeping it close to the temperature inside your home. This prevents your crawl space pipes from freezing while also reducing the risk of condensation and moisture buildup.
A professional insulation contractor can install high-quality insulation between floor joists, which will help to maintain a consistent temperature and protect your crawl space pipes during the winter. For homes in colder climates like the Pacific Northwest, a six-inch-thick, R-19 fiberglass batt is a common recommendation.
Sealing Holes And Cracks
If there are gaps in your subfloor, such as those caused by electrical wiring or plumbing, it’s important to seal them with spray foam insulation. This will help prevent cold air from infiltrating the crawl space, further reducing the risk of frozen pipes.
Prevention Is Key – Take Action Early
Preventing frozen pipes in your crawl space doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re taking simple DIY steps like closing vents and using heating tape or opting for professional insulation services, there are plenty of ways to protect your pipes from freezing.
The key is to take action early. Frozen pipes are a costly problem that can be avoided with a few precautionary measures. By following these steps today, you can ensure that your crawl space pipes remain safe and functional throughout the winter months.
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