Plumbers & Cracks: The Winter Plumbing Mistakes That Could Cost Homeowners Thousands
Your guide to preventing frozen pipes, winterizing outdoor plumbing, and protecting your Massachusetts home before the first deep freeze.
When the temperatures start dropping in Massachusetts, most homeowners begin thinking about turning on the heat, putting away the patio furniture, and preparing for another unpredictable New England winter.
But there's something happening behind your walls, beneath your sinks, and outside your home that deserves just as much attention.
Your plumbing.
And if you're not prepared, a little water left in the wrong place could turn into a very expensive problem.
On a recent episode of Talk Real Estate Roundtable, Boston Connect Real Estate broker-owner Sharon McNamara welcomed back her husband, Mark McNamara of McNamara Plumbing, a licensed master plumber with nearly four decades of experience.
After discussing general fall and winter home maintenance during their previous episode, Sharon and Mark decided it was time to get into the plumbing details.
Sharon gave the show a playful title: "Plumbers & Cracks."
The name may have gotten a few laughs, but the subject was serious. When water freezes, it expands. When that happens inside your plumbing system, the results can be devastating.
From outdoor faucets and irrigation systems to seasonal cottages and forgotten bathroom fixtures, Sharon and Mark shared the things homeowners should know before freezing temperatures arrive.
And perhaps the biggest takeaway?
It's not always the first freeze that causes the biggest problem. Sometimes it's what happens when everything starts to thaw.
The First Freeze Isn't Always When the Damage Appears
Most homeowners assume that if their pipes are going to freeze, they'll know immediately.
But Mark explained that this isn't necessarily the case.
When temperatures first drop, plumbers often receive calls about heating systems that aren't working properly.
However, some of the most significant plumbing emergencies happen after the temperature rises again.
Imagine an outdoor water line that wasn't properly drained before a cold snap.
Water trapped inside the pipe freezes and expands. Depending on the severity of the freeze, the pipe may crack or split.
While the water remains frozen, the damage might not be obvious.
Then the weather warms up.
The ice melts, water begins flowing again, and suddenly there's a leak.
What seemed like a harmless cold spell can quickly turn into a major plumbing repair.
Mark explained that some pipes freeze without immediately splitting, while longer periods of freezing temperatures can lead to more extensive damage.
That's why homeowners shouldn't assume everything is fine simply because they haven't noticed a leak.
A frozen pipe may reveal its damage only after it thaws.
A Real Estate Story That Shows Just How Destructive Frozen Pipes Can Be
Sharon shared an unforgettable experience from her years working with short-sale properties.
She recalled visiting a vacant home in Scituate, close to the waterfront, that had supposedly been winterized.
The property had been under bank involvement, and Sharon had been told that the winterization had already been completed.
But when she entered the house, the damage told a very different story.
The home had a forced-hot-water heating system with copper piping running from the boiler to the baseboard heating units.
The pipes had frozen.
And they hadn't just developed a small leak.
The copper pipes had split open along their lengths.
Sharon described seeing extensive damage throughout the heating system.
The experience reinforced an important lesson for anyone buying, selling, or maintaining a vacant property.
Never assume a home has been properly winterized simply because someone says the work was completed.
If a property will be left without heat or water service during freezing weather, proper winterization is essential.
For buyers considering vacant or seasonal properties, it's also a reminder to ask questions about how the home has been maintained during the colder months.
Outdoor Faucets: One of the Most Commonly Forgotten Winter Maintenance Tasks
One of the biggest trouble spots Mark sees every year is something most homeowners use throughout the spring and summer without giving it much thought.
The outdoor faucet.
Whether you call it a spigot, hose bib, or sillcock, it's the connection where you attach your garden hose.
And it's one of the easiest places to overlook when preparing for winter.
Mark explained that there are two common types of outdoor faucets: traditional faucets and frost-proof faucets.
Understanding the difference can help homeowners avoid an unnecessary plumbing emergency.
Traditional outdoor faucets
A traditional outdoor faucet has its shutoff mechanism near the exterior of the home.
That means water can remain in an area exposed to freezing temperatures.
For these fixtures, homeowners generally need to shut off the water supply inside the home and properly drain the remaining water.
Mark described how some interior shutoff valves include small drain fittings that allow the water to be released after the supply is turned off.
The important thing is making sure water isn't left trapped in the line.
Frost-proof outdoor faucets
Frost-proof faucets are designed differently.
Their shutoff mechanism is positioned farther inside the building, away from the exterior opening.
When properly installed, the remaining water drains outward after the faucet is turned off.
This design helps protect the fixture from freezing.
But Sharon asked an important question:
Can a frost-proof faucet still freeze?
Mark's answer was yes.
And the reason is something many homeowners forget.
Leaving the hose attached can defeat the frost-proof design
Even with a frost-proof faucet, leaving a garden hose connected can prevent the fixture from draining properly.
When water remains trapped inside, it can freeze.
That means a homeowner could have a frost-proof faucet and still end up with a damaged pipe.
Mark emphasized that disconnecting hoses is one of the simplest and most important fall maintenance tasks.
Homeowner tip: Remove garden hoses and other attachments before freezing weather. Confirm how your particular faucet is designed and follow the appropriate winterization procedure.
A few minutes of preparation could prevent an expensive repair.
Is Upgrading to a Frost-Proof Faucet Worth Considering?
During the conversation, Sharon questioned why anyone living in Massachusetts would choose a traditional outdoor faucet when frost-proof options are available.
Mark explained that cost and installation conditions can influence that decision.
Not every location is suitable for the same type of fixture.
For example, an outdoor faucet mounted on a deck or in a wall with limited interior space may present installation challenges.
The design and layout of the home matter.
For homeowners renovating or replacing outdoor plumbing, it's worth asking a licensed plumber whether a frost-proof faucet would be appropriate.
While no fixture eliminates the need for seasonal maintenance, choosing the right plumbing components can make protecting your home easier.
Your Irrigation System Needs Attention Before Winter
A beautiful lawn and landscaping can add tremendous appeal to a property.
But an irrigation system also introduces additional plumbing that needs seasonal attention.
Mark explained that sprinkler systems typically have shutoffs and drainage arrangements that allow them to be winterized.
In many cases, an irrigation company handles the seasonal blowout.
This process removes water from the system using appropriate equipment.
Why does it matter?
Because water left inside irrigation piping can freeze, potentially damaging lines, fittings, valves, or other components.
Sharon mentioned hearing about homeowners who attempted to winterize their systems themselves, only to discover that a sprinkler zone had been damaged.
Mark explained that properly blowing out irrigation lines requires suitable equipment and knowledge of the system.
For homeowners with professionally installed irrigation, scheduling service with a qualified irrigation company before freezing weather is a practical preventative step.
Saving money on maintenance doesn't help much if the result is a larger repair bill.
Outdoor Showers, Pool Houses, and Cabana Plumbing: Don't Forget the Water You Can't See
Here on the South Shore, outdoor showers are a familiar feature.
They're especially popular in coastal communities such as Scituate, Marshfield, Duxbury, and other towns where homeowners enjoy spending time near the water.
But outdoor showers are also a common source of winter plumbing problems.
Mark explained that a frozen outdoor shower valve can be an expensive repair.
And the issue isn't limited to the showerhead or visible faucet.
Water can remain inside valves, supply lines, and other plumbing components.
Sharon and Mark discussed the seasonal maintenance required at their own property, which includes an outdoor shower, pool house, cabana bathroom, sinks, irrigation connections, and other outdoor water fixtures.
Each requires attention before winter.
Mark also shared a lighthearted story about a customer in Scituate who loves using his outdoor shower as late into the fall as possible.
Every year, Mark has to remind him that winterization can't be postponed indefinitely.
It's a familiar dilemma for New England homeowners.
We want to enjoy summer for as long as possible.
But Mother Nature doesn't always wait for us to be ready.
If you have an outdoor shower, pool house, seasonal bathroom, or outdoor kitchen with plumbing, make sure those fixtures are included in your winter maintenance plan.
Seasonal Homes Require More Than Turning Off the Water
Massachusetts has many seasonal properties, particularly throughout coastal communities and Cape Cod.
Some were built generations ago as summer cottages and were never intended for year-round occupancy.
Mark explained that these properties can require extensive winterization.
Older cottages may have limited insulation, exposed plumbing, or pipes installed in areas vulnerable to freezing.
Some are elevated on blocks or pilings, allowing cold air to circulate beneath the structure.
Simply turning off the water supply may not be enough.
Mark described the process he uses when winterizing seasonal homes.
Depending on the property, the work may include coordinating with the water department, draining the plumbing system, using compressed air to remove remaining water, and protecting fixtures and appliances that retain water.
Why draining the pipes isn't always enough
Over time, older homes can settle.
When that happens, plumbing lines may no longer slope as originally intended.
Water can become trapped in low spots.
Mark explained that this is one reason some older seasonal homes require more thorough winterization.
A pipe that appears drained may still contain enough water to freeze.
That's also why homeowners should be cautious about assuming a do-it-yourself winterization was successful.
Every property is different.
And a mistake may not become apparent until the following spring.
Don't Forget About Washing Machines, Dishwashers, and Water Heaters
When people think about winterizing a house, they usually picture faucets, toilets, and exposed pipes.
But what about the appliances?
Sharon admitted that she hadn't fully appreciated how much work goes into preparing a seasonal home for winter.
Mark explained that washing machines, dishwashers, and water heaters can all retain water.
During professional winterization, these components may require specific draining and protective procedures.
He described using an appropriate RV/marine antifreeze in certain appliance pumps and plumbing traps as part of his winterization process.
The exact steps depend on the equipment and the manufacturer's requirements.
This is particularly important for homeowners who leave their seasonal properties vacant for months.
Winterizing a home means accounting for all the places water can remain not just the faucets you can see.
For appliances, follow manufacturer-approved procedures and consult qualified professionals rather than assuming one method works for every model.
Do You Know Where Your Main Water Shutoff Valve Is?
This may be one of the most important questions Sharon asked during the entire episode.
If a pipe burst in your home right now, would you know where to shut off the water?
And perhaps just as important:
Could you reach the valve quickly?
Mark explained that when he visits an unfamiliar home, one of the first things he wants to locate is the main water shutoff.
Because if something goes wrong, every moment matters.
Unfortunately, not every homeowner knows where it is.
Sharon admitted that although she knows where the shutoff is in her own home, accessing it quickly could be another matter.
This is a simple but valuable maintenance assignment for every homeowner.
Locate the main water shutoff valve, make sure the area around it is accessible, and learn how it operates.
If you're unsure whether the valve works properly, ask a licensed plumber to inspect it.
You don't want to be searching through a crowded basement while water is pouring onto the floor.
Why Some Homes Have Frozen Pipes Year After Year
Have you ever heard someone say that their kitchen pipes freeze every winter?
Mark explained that if a pipe has frozen before, there's a good chance the same problem will happen again unless the underlying condition is corrected.
The issue often involves plumbing located in cold or drafty areas.
Older homes may have water lines running near exterior walls, in poorly insulated cavities, or through spaces exposed to freezing temperatures.
Sharon asked whether the type of piping makes a difference.
Mark explained that location and exposure are critical factors.
Whether the pipe is copper or PEX, plumbing exposed to sufficiently cold conditions can freeze.
Some homeowners develop temporary routines to keep vulnerable areas warmer during cold snaps.
But Mark's preferred approach is to identify why the pipe is freezing and address the cause.
That might involve improving insulation, eliminating drafts, or correcting the plumbing installation.
The goal shouldn't be to survive the same frozen-pipe emergency every winter. It should be to prevent it from happening again.
For homeowners with recurring freezing problems, professional evaluation is especially worthwhile.
What About Letting the Faucet Drip?
You've probably heard this advice before:
When temperatures drop, leave a faucet dripping to help prevent the pipes from freezing.
But Mark cautioned that the effectiveness of this approach depends on the home's plumbing configuration.
In some circumstances, moving water may help protect a vulnerable supply line.
However, certain homes have exposed drainpipes, including some elevated cottages and coastal properties.
In those situations, a slow drip can create another problem.
Water may freeze inside the drain, gradually accumulating until the pipe becomes blocked.
This is why blanket winter plumbing advice doesn't always apply to every home.
What works in one house may cause trouble in another.
If your property has exposed supply or drain piping, it's important to understand the risks before relying on a dripping faucet as your freeze-prevention strategy.
A Strange Smell in the Bathroom? It Might Be Something Surprisingly Simple
Not every plumbing problem involves freezing temperatures.
During the episode, Sharon shared a story about a home she was selling that had an unpleasant odor in one of the bathrooms.
Every time she visited the property, the smell seemed to be there.
The bathroom had a large jetted tub that wasn't being used regularly.
After discussing the issue with Mark, Sharon discovered that the solution could be remarkably simple.
Run the water.
Understanding the purpose of a plumbing trap
Most sinks, tubs, and showers have a plumbing trap designed to retain a small amount of water.
That water creates a seal that helps prevent sewer gases from entering the living space.
But when a fixture goes unused for an extended period, the water in the trap can evaporate.
Once the trap loses its water seal, odors may enter the room.
Mark explained that running water into the unused tub could refill the trap and restore the seal.
Sharon tried it.
And the odor disappeared.
It's an excellent reminder that some home maintenance problems have straightforward explanations.
If you have a guest bathroom, seldom-used shower, or large soaking tub that rarely gets used, remember that the plumbing still needs occasional attention.
If an odor persists after refilling the trap, have the plumbing evaluated to identify the cause.
Power Outages Can Create Plumbing Emergencies Too
Toward the end of the show, a listener named Martha from Marshfield called in to share her experience living in the Humarock area.
Her former home was an older coastal cottage that experienced flooding, severe storms, and power outages.
She described how difficult it was to keep the house warm during extended outages and how concerned she was about the plumbing freezing.
Her story highlighted an issue that homeowners sometimes overlook.
Even if you normally maintain adequate heat inside your home, a prolonged power outage can change everything.
When the heating system stops operating during freezing weather, plumbing in vulnerable areas may be at risk.
For coastal homeowners and residents of older properties, this deserves particular attention.
Having a plan for extended outages may include evaluating insulation, understanding your plumbing's vulnerable locations, and considering appropriate backup power options.
Martha also described a makeshift heating method that helped protect a pipe during an outage. Such improvised heat sources can introduce fire or electrical hazards, so homeowners should rely on properly installed, approved solutions rather than placing hot bulbs or portable heaters near plumbing.
The larger lesson from her call was clear.
Winter preparedness isn't just about protecting your home when everything is working. It's about having a plan for when something stops working.
DIY Maintenance vs. Hiring a Professional: Know the Difference
Throughout the conversation, Sharon and Mark returned to an important question.
When should homeowners handle maintenance themselves, and when is it worth calling a professional?
There's nothing wrong with being handy.
Many homeowners enjoy taking care of their own properties.
But some projects require specialized equipment, training, or licensed tradespeople.
Mark joked about the number of calls he receives after homeowners attempt plumbing repairs over the weekend.
What starts as a Saturday project can become a Sunday emergency.
And from Sharon's perspective as a real estate broker, there's another reason to be thoughtful about home repairs.
Improper plumbing work can become a problem when selling
Sharon explained that when she's touring properties, she sometimes notices plumbing installations that don't look quite right.
That can lead to questions about who completed the work and whether the necessary permits were obtained.
When buyers conduct inspections and review municipal records, unpermitted or improperly completed work can become a concern.
It may lead to additional questions, evaluations, or requests for corrective work.
For homeowners thinking about selling in the future, proper maintenance and documentation are valuable.
Hiring the right professional isn't simply about fixing today's problem.
It's also about protecting the condition, safety, and marketability of your home.
Your Winter Plumbing Maintenance Checklist
Before the first extended freeze, consider reviewing these items around your property:
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Outdoor faucets: Disconnect garden hoses and properly winterize faucets according to their design.
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Outdoor showers: Arrange for seasonal shutdown and drainage.
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Irrigation systems: Schedule professional winterization before freezing temperatures.
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Pool houses and cabanas: Include bathrooms, sinks, showers, and water heaters in the winterization plan.
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Seasonal homes: Arrange comprehensive winterization rather than assuming shutting off the water is enough.
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Exposed plumbing: Check areas that have frozen previously and address drafts or insulation concerns.
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Heating systems: Make sure the system is operating properly before the coldest weather arrives.
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Main water shutoff: Know where it is and how to access it quickly.
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Unused plumbing fixtures: Maintain water seals in traps to help prevent sewer odors.
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Power-outage preparation: Have a safe plan for protecting your home during prolonged outages.
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Plumbing repairs: Use appropriately licensed professionals and obtain required permits.
The Real Cost of Putting Off Home Maintenance
It's easy to postpone a maintenance task when everything appears to be working.
The outdoor shower still runs.
The garden hose is still attached.
The irrigation system worked perfectly all summer.
The cottage was fine last winter.
But as Sharon and Mark emphasized, water doesn't care how busy your schedule is.
And winter doesn't wait until you're ready.
A forgotten hose connection can become a damaged faucet.
An improperly drained outdoor shower can become a costly repair.
A seasonal home that wasn't fully winterized can suffer extensive plumbing damage.
And a pipe that freezes without an obvious leak may reveal its damage when temperatures rise.
The encouraging part is that many of these problems can be prevented with preparation.
Understanding your home's plumbing, knowing its vulnerable areas, and taking action before freezing weather arrives can make a meaningful difference.
Beyond Real Estate: Protecting the Home You Love
At Boston Connect Real Estate, we believe that being a resource for our clients means more than helping them buy or sell a property.
It means sharing the knowledge, experience, and local connections that help homeowners care for their investment long after closing day.
Whether you own a year-round residence in Pembroke, a waterfront property in Scituate, a seasonal cottage in Marshfield, or a home anywhere across the South Shore, understanding your property's maintenance needs is an important part of homeownership.
Sharon and Mark's conversation was filled with humor, practical advice, and stories that only come from years of working in real estate and the trades.
But underneath all the laughs was an important message:
Don't wait until something breaks to learn how your home works.
Find your water shutoff.
Disconnect the hoses.
Schedule the winterization.
Ask questions.
And when a project requires professional expertise, don't hesitate to get the right help.
Because taking care of the little things today can help you avoid much bigger problems tomorrow.
For more homeowner advice, real estate insights, and conversations about life on the South Shore, follow Talk Real Estate Roundtable, sponsored by Boston Connect Real Estate.
Thinking about buying or selling a home in Massachusetts? Connect with our team at BostonConnect.com or call 781-826-8000.
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