Why Do Water Pipes Burst in the Summer? How to Prevent It
When you think of burst water pipes, winter probably comes to mind. But did you know that summer can also cause serious plumbing issues?
Many homeowners are caught off guard when their pipes suddenly burst during hot weather. The combination of extreme heat, increased water usage, and shifting soil can put extra stress on your plumbing system, leading to cracks and leaks.
Older pipes or those made from weaker materials are especially vulnerable. Understanding why pipes burst in the summer can help you take steps to prevent costly damage.
Whether it’s expanding pipes due to heat or tree roots searching for moisture, several factors play a role. In this blog, we’ll explore the most common reasons behind summer pipe bursts and share tips on how to protect your plumbing.
Increased Water Demand and Pressure
Summer means more water usage, and that extra demand can put serious stress on your pipes. With more people watering gardens, filling pools, and running sprinklers, your plumbing system has to work harder than usual.
Here’s how that can lead to burst pipes:
- Higher water usage = more pressure – When multiple taps, hoses, and appliances are running at the same time, the water pressure in your pipes increases. If your pipes are old or already weakened, they may not be able to handle the extra strain.
- Irrigation systems add extra load – Sprinklers and garden hoses constantly turning on and off create fluctuations in pressure, which can cause stress fractures in pipes over time.
- Household appliances work overtime – Dishwashers, washing machines and showers see more frequent use in summer, increasing overall pressure in your plumbing.
- Water restrictions can make it worse – If water is suddenly turned back on after a restriction period, the sudden surge can be too much for fragile pipes.
To prevent issues, consider installing a pressure regulator and scheduling regular plumbing inspections to catch weak spots before they burst.
Expanding and Contracting Pipes Due to Heat
Summer heat doesn’t just make you uncomfortable − it also affects your water pipes. When temperatures rise, pipes expand, and when they cool down at night, they contract. Over time, this constant movement weakens the material, leading to cracks and bursts.
Here’s how it happens:
- Metal pipes expand more – Copper and steel pipes are especially prone to expansion in high temperatures. If they don’t have enough room to expand, they can warp or crack under pressure.
- PVC pipes become more flexible but weaker – Plastic pipes may soften slightly in extreme heat, making them more vulnerable to damage from water pressure or external forces.
- Frequent temperature changes stress pipes – The cycle of expansion during the day and contraction at night causes small fractures, which grow over time until the pipe fails.
- Exposed pipes are at higher risk – Pipes running through attics, under decks, or near sunlit walls heat up faster, making them more likely to suffer from thermal stress.
To prevent issues, insulate exposed pipes and ensure they have proper expansion joints to handle the summer heat safely.
Ground Shifting and Soil Movement
During the summer, extreme heat doesn’t just affect people − it impacts the ground beneath your home as well. When temperatures soar, the soil dries out and contracts, creating gaps around underground pipes.
This movement can put extra stress on your plumbing, especially if the pipes shift out of alignment. As the ground shifts, pipes may bend, crack, or even separate at the joints, leading to leaks or full-blown bursts.
In areas with clay-heavy soil, the problem is even worse. Clay expands when wet and shrinks when dry, causing frequent movement that weakens buried pipes over time. Heavy summer rains after a dry spell can suddenly make the soil expand again, putting even more pressure on the pipes.
Older pipes or those made from brittle materials like clay or galvanised steel are more likely to crack under these shifting conditions.
Regular inspections and proper pipe installation can help reduce the risk. If you notice signs of leaks, like wet patches in your yard, it’s best to get a plumber to check before it turns into a major issue.
Corrosion and Pipe Deterioration
While pipes are built to last, they don’t stay in perfect condition forever. Over time, natural wear and tear weaken them, making them more vulnerable to damage − especially in the summer.
High temperatures can accelerate the corrosion process, particularly in older metal pipes. As the heat causes water to evaporate faster, mineral deposits build up inside the pipes, leading to drain blockages and increased pressure. This extra strain can cause already weakened pipes to burst.
Humidity is another factor. In areas with high summer humidity, condensation can form on the outside of pipes, leading to rust and gradual deterioration. Underground pipes aren’t immune either − moisture fluctuations in the soil can speed up corrosion, especially for pipes made of iron or steel.
If your home has ageing plumbing, it’s important to check for signs of corrosion, such as discoloured water, low water pressure, or visible rust. Replacing old pipes before they fail can save you from unexpected water damage. Regular plumbing inspections can help catch early signs of deterioration and prevent costly repairs down the line.
Tree Root Intrusion
During the hot summer months, trees and plants search for water wherever they can find it − including inside your underground pipes. As roots grow and spread, they can cause serious damage to your plumbing.
Here’s how tree root intrusion leads to burst pipes:
- Roots seek out moisture – If there’s even a small leak or crack in an underground pipe, tree roots will be drawn to the water source and start growing into the pipe.
- Roots apply pressure – As roots expand, they exert pressure on the pipe, which can cause it to weaken, crack, or completely burst over time.
- Blockages increase pipe pressure – If roots grow inside the pipe, they can cause blockages that restrict water flow. This buildup of pressure may eventually lead to a rupture.
- Older pipes are more vulnerable – Pipes made of clay, cast iron, or other outdated materials are especially prone to root intrusion and damage.
To prevent tree roots from damaging your pipes, consider regular plumbing inspections, root barriers, and removing problem trees if necessary.
Poor Pipe Installation or Ageing Infrastructure
Not all pipes are created equal, and if yours weren’t installed correctly, they could be more prone to bursting − especially in the summer. Poorly fitted joints, low-quality materials, or pipes that weren’t designed to handle high water pressure can all lead to major plumbing failures when temperatures rise.
As pipes expand in the heat, weak connections or improperly secured sections may shift, crack, or even detach, causing leaks or full-blown bursts.
Ageing infrastructure is another big factor. If your home has older plumbing, particularly metal pipes like galvanised steel or cast iron, they may have already weakened due to years of wear and tear.
Over time, rust, corrosion, and mineral buildup inside the pipes make them more brittle and susceptible to sudden pressure changes in the summer. Even PVC pipes, while more resistant to corrosion, can degrade if exposed to excessive heat for long periods.
If your home has an older plumbing system or you suspect poor installation, regular inspections by a professional plumber can help identify potential issues before they turn into costly water damage.
How to Prevent Pipes from Bursting
Burst pipes in the summer can be a costly and frustrating problem, but with the right precautions, you can protect your plumbing. Here are some effective ways to prevent your pipes from bursting:
- Monitor your water pressure – High water pressure puts extra stress on your pipes, increasing the risk of cracks and leaks. Install a pressure regulator to keep it at a safe level.
- Inspect pipes regularly – Check for signs of wear, rust, or small leaks. Catching problems early can prevent bigger issues down the road.
- Limit excessive water use – Avoid running multiple water-heavy appliances at the same time, especially during peak heat. Staggering usage can reduce pressure on your plumbing.
- Protect exposed pipes – Pipes in attics, garages, or outdoor areas can overheat and expand. Insulating them helps regulate temperature changes.
- Be mindful of tree roots – Keep an eye on trees near underground pipes. If roots are a concern, a professional plumber can assess and remove any threats.
- Schedule professional maintenance – A yearly plumbing inspection can identify weak spots before they turn into major problems.
Taking these steps can help ensure your pipes stay strong all summer long.
Don’t Ignore Warning Signs
While most people associate burst pipes with freezing winter temperatures, summer can be just as damaging.
High water usage, extreme heat, shifting soil, and even tree roots can put significant stress on your plumbing, leading to unexpected leaks or bursts. Older pipes and those that were poorly installed are even more vulnerable to summer-related issues.
The good news? Preventing burst pipes is possible. Regular plumbing inspections, monitoring water pressure, insulating exposed pipes and being mindful of tree roots can all help protect your plumbing system.
If you notice any warning signs – such as low water pressure, strange noises, or wet patches in your yard – don’t wait for a disaster. A professional plumber can help you identify and fix small problems before they turn into costly repairs. Stay proactive, and your pipes will stay strong all summer long.
Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See Cyber Plumbers’ Terms & Conditions here.
