How to Prevent Frozen Pipes During a Montreal Winter

Montreal winters are among the harshest in North America for residential plumbing. When temperatures drop below -15°C — which happens multiple times every season — unprotected pipes can freeze and burst within hours, causing catastrophic water damage.

The most vulnerable pipes are those that run through exterior walls, unheated garages, crawl spaces, and uninsulated attics. These are the areas to focus on before the cold season arrives.

Pipe insulation is your first line of defence. Foam pipe sleeves are inexpensive, easy to install, and dramatically reduce the risk of freezing. Focus on any pipe that runs within 30cm of an exterior wall or in an unheated space. For extra protection in the coldest zones, electric heat tape can be wrapped around pipes and plugged in during extreme cold snaps.

Keep your home at a consistent temperature — even when you're away. Many burst pipe incidents happen when homeowners lower the thermostat significantly while on vacation. We recommend never setting your heat below 13°C, even in vacant properties.

Know where your main water shut-off valve is located. In the event of a burst pipe, every second counts. If you're not sure where yours is, ask your plumber to show you at your next service visit.

Before winter arrives, disconnect and drain all exterior hose bibs. Water left in outdoor lines will freeze and can crack the fitting inside the wall. Install insulated bib covers for an added layer of protection.

If you're leaving for an extended period, consider having a trusted neighbour check the property during extreme cold, or install a smart thermostat with remote monitoring so you can respond immediately if temperatures drop unexpectedly.