Why do frozen pipes break?

When water freezes inside a pipe, it expands—sometimes with enough force to exceed the pipe’s strength. That pressure builds until the pipe cracks or bursts, often at joints or weak spots. Materials like copper and PVC are especially rigid, so they can’t flex when the ice expands. Even flexible materials like PEX can fail if the pressure has nowhere to escape. If you suspect a frozen pipe, shut off your water supply and call Bulldog Rooter right away. Our team can safely thaw and repair the line before it causes serious damage.