If you thought winter was the only time you needed to worry about a burst pipe—think again. This summer, Ohio has seen extreme heat, fluctuating temperatures, and intense storm activity, creating a perfect storm for plumbing emergencies. At Massie Creek Plumbing, we’ve seen firsthand how these conditions can weaken pipes, stress water lines, and cause serious property damage. When it comes to emergency plumbing services, every second counts—and the best protection is preparation.
Why Summer Pipes Are at Risk
Ohio’s summer weather in 2025 has been nothing short of brutal. The alternating heatwaves and sudden rainstorms create expansion and contraction in your plumbing system. This stress can cause older or compromised pipes to crack, corrode, or fail entirely. When that happens, you’ve got a burst pipe emergency on your hands—and possibly extensive water damage to your home.
Outdoor plumbing lines and irrigation systems are especially vulnerable, but don’t overlook indoor pipes—especially in basements and crawlspaces, where the heat and humidity create ideal conditions for mold, mildew, and hidden leaks.
What to Do When a Pipe Bursts
Whether it’s your yard or your bathroom floor filling with water, you need to act fast to minimize damage. Here’s how to handle a burst pipe:
- Stop the Flow of Water
Immediately shut off your main water supply. This is the single most important step to prevent further damage. - Shut Off Electricity
If water is near electrical outlets or appliances, cut the power in those affected areas to avoid electrocution. - Call an Emergency Plumber
Don’t try to tackle this on your own. Call Massie Creek Plumbing’s emergency plumbing services to get fast, professional help. - Document the Damage
Take photos and video of all visible damage. This will be important if you’re filing an insurance claim. - Drain the Remaining Water
Open faucets and flush toilets to remove remaining water in the system. - Clean Up Quickly
Use towels, buckets, and wet/dry vacs to reduce standing water and limit structural damage.
How to Prevent Pipes from Bursting
While you can’t control Ohio’s wild summer weather, you can take smart, proactive steps to prevent pipes from bursting and avoid expensive plumbing disasters. These preventative measures can help you minimize damage, protect your home’s infrastructure, and ensure your plumbing system remains in top shape all year long:
Schedule Regular Plumbing Inspections
One of the most effective ways to avoid a plumbing emergency is to have your system professionally inspected at least once a year. A professional plumber can identify early warning signs—such as rust, corrosion, pinhole leaks, or weakened joints—that homeowners often miss. By catching small issues early, you can prevent future pipe failures and reduce the risk of sudden water damage. Regular inspections also ensure your home stays compliant with current building codes and safety standards.
Install a Pressure Regulator
High water pressure might feel great in the shower, but it puts extra stress on your pipes. Over time, this pressure can lead to pipe bursting, especially in older homes with aging plumbing systems. A water pressure regulator helps maintain a safe, consistent level throughout your home’s pipes. This simple addition can extend the life of your plumbing and prevent further damage from pressure-related failures. Ask your emergency plumber or plumbing technician if your home could benefit from one.
Insulate Exposed Pipes
Even in the summer, extreme weather fluctuations—like the rapid temperature drops after Ohio thunderstorms—can cause pipes to contract suddenly. These temperature shocks can crack vulnerable pipes, particularly in basements, crawlspaces, attics, or exterior walls. Proper pipe insulation helps stabilize temperature and pressure, decreasing the chance of failure. It’s an affordable and effective way to protect your plumbing and ensure your plumbing system runs efficiently year-round.
Ensure Your Plumbing System Is Up-to-Date
If your home is older or has never had a full plumbing evaluation, your pipes could be made from outdated materials like galvanized steel or polybutylene—both of which are known for failing under stress. Replacing aging pipes with modern, durable materials such as PEX or copper can prevent future emergencies and improve water quality and flow. Investing in updates now will help you avoid costly repairs later, especially when summer plumbing problems strike without warning.
Don’t Let Summer Catch You Off Guard
Many homeowners in Ohio are prepared for winter plumbing issues—but summer plumbing problems are just as serious. A sudden burst pipe can cost thousands in repairs and cause irreversible damage to walls, flooring, and your home’s foundation.
Let Massie Creek Plumbing help you stay ahead of disaster. We offer emergency plumbing services throughout the region, and our licensed, professional plumbers are available to respond quickly and effectively when you need us most.
Don’t wait until your basement is underwater or your yard turns into a swamp. Schedule a regular plumbing inspection today and take the preventative measures that can protect your home and wallet year-round.