Richmond, Va. – Late-winter temperature swings are driving pipe failures across Virginia homes just weeks before spring arrives.
Plumbing professionals say the period between winter cold and early spring warmth is one of the most damaging times for residential plumbing. When daytime temperatures climb above freezing and fall again overnight, pipes weakened by winter freezing repeatedly expand and contract, increasing the likelihood of cracks and leaks.
In cities such as Richmond and Alexandria, where many homes and apartment buildings were built decades ago, older plumbing systems are especially vulnerable. Pipes located in basements, crawl spaces, attics, and exterior walls can develop hairline fractures during winter that remain hidden until water pressure increases later in the season.
Many pipe failures surface when homeowners reconnect outdoor hoses, resume heavier water use, or begin early spring cleaning. Warning signs may include fluctuating water pressure, damp spots near walls or ceilings, corrosion or discoloration on exposed pipes, and outdoor faucets that drip when turned on.
Plumbers across Virginia report that early spring consistently brings a surge in emergency service calls. Many of those repairs are traced back to freeze damage that occurred weeks earlier but was not visible at the time. As demand rises, wait times and repair costs often increase.
Younger homeowners and first-time buyers are frequently caught off guard by sudden pipe failures, which can flood living spaces, damage electronics, and disrupt work schedules. Renters may also experience service interruptions or temporary displacement when urgent plumbing repairs are required.
Experts recommend inspecting exposed pipes now, testing faucets for pressure changes, draining and disconnecting outdoor hoses, and insulating plumbing in unheated areas. Addressing pipe stress before steady warm weather arrives can help prevent costly water damage during Virginia’s spring transition.
