How to Properly Insulate Crawl Space Pipes in Cold Weather

At Total Home Water Restoration, we get a lot of calls every winter from homeowners in Grove City, Hilliard, and across Columbus dealing with frozen or burst pipes—especially in crawl spaces. And the truth is, most of it could have been prevented with proper insulation.

Here’s what you need to know to protect your pipes before the next cold snap hits.

Why Crawl Space Pipes Freeze

Crawl spaces are especially vulnerable in Ohio homes because:

• They're often unheated.

• Cold air seeps in through vents and gaps.

• Pipes are usually close to exterior walls or uninsulated flooring.

When temperatures drop, any exposed pipe in these areas can freeze—and if it does, it can burst, flood your crawl space, and lead to major repair costs.

Step-by-Step: Insulating Pipes in a Crawl Space

1. Inspect the Area

Look for:

• Uninsulated or exposed pipes

• Gaps where cold air can get in

• Signs of past leaks or moisture

If the crawl space is damp, deal with moisture issues first. Wet insulation won’t help you.

2. Use the Right Materials

Here’s what works best in crawl spaces:

• Foam pipe sleeves – Good for straight runs

• Fiberglass wrap with plastic vapor barrier – Great for irregular shapes or tight spaces

• Spray foam insulation – Ideal for hard-to-reach areas or sealing small gaps

• Heat tape (only if necessary) – For high-risk pipes, just make sure it’s rated for safe use

3. Seal Air Leaks

Before insulating, close off vents and seal any air leaks with:

• Foam board insulation

• Spray foam sealant

• Weatherstripping around access doors

This keeps cold air out and helps the insulation do its job.

4. Insulate the Pipes

• Wrap or sleeve each pipe tightly.

• Don’t leave gaps between sections of insulation.

• Secure with zip ties, tape, or wire.

If you're using fiberglass, make sure the vapor barrier faces outward to block moisture.

5. Consider Insulating the Crawl Space Walls

In colder zones, insulating just the pipes may not be enough. Insulating the foundation walls can help keep the whole crawl space above freezing.

Note: Any insulation method must comply with Ohio Residential Code Section N1102.2.10, which allows unvented crawl spaces when properly sealed and insulated.

When to Call a Professional

If your crawl space is:

• Difficult to access

• Wet or moldy

• Already showing pipe damage

Give us a call at 380-246-1837. We’ll assess the situation and get it fixed right the first time. Frozen pipe damage often isn’t covered by insurance if proper precautions weren’t taken.

FAQs

How cold does it need to be for crawl space pipes to freeze?
Typically, 20°F or below for several hours can do it—but it varies based on insulation, wind, and pipe placement.

Can I use regular fiberglass attic insulation?
Not recommended. It holds moisture and sags over time. Use pipe-specific insulation or closed-cell foam.

What if my crawl space is already flooded from a burst pipe?
Shut off your water and call us. We handle water removal, drying, and restoration—from burst pipes to mold damage.

“From disaster to done right. We fix it like it’s our own home.” – Tyler Zimmerman

Total Home Water Restoration
4141 Hoover Rd, Grove City, OH 43123
📞 380-246-1837