Austin, TX

The biggest seasonal plumbing threat in Austin is frozen and burst pipes during infrequent but severe cold snaps (like Winter Storm Uri).

This is because Central Texas homes are not typically built with the same level of pipe insulation found in northern states. As a result, exposed pipes (especially those in attics, crawl spaces, garages, and outdoors) are highly vulnerable when temperatures drop below freezing for extended periods.

Actions to Take

• First, Dripping Faucets: Allow cold water to slowly drip from one or two faucets to relieve pressure in the line.

• Next, Insulate: Cover outdoor hose bibs (spigots) with insulated covers and wrap any exposed pipes.

• Additionally, Circulate Heat: Open cabinets under sinks to allow warm air from the house to circulate around the interior pipes.

• Finally, Know Your Shutoff: Ensure you know where your main water shutoff valve is located (usually near the street meter or where the main line enters the house) in case a pipe bursts.

In many Central Austin neighborhoods with homes built before the $1980$s, the most common and costly plumbing issue is the deterioration of original cast iron sewer and drain lines.

Specifically, since cast iron pipes typically have a lifespan of about $40-50$ years, they rust from the inside out over time. This degradation process leads to:

• Tree Root Intrusion: Rusting pipes soften, allowing large tree roots (a major issue in Austin) to break through and cause blockages.

• Foundation Damage (Slab Leaks): For homes built on a concrete slab foundation, deteriorating pipes beneath the slab can leak water into the foundation, causing the soil to shift and potentially leading to expensive structural damage and high repair costs.

Consequently, it is highly recommended for owners of older homes to have their drain lines inspected with a sewer camera.