How to Cover Pipes for a Freeze in Baton Rouge

Why pipes freeze in Baton Rouge

Most homes in South Louisiana are not designed for prolonged cold. Plumbing lines often run through attics, garages, exterior walls, and outdoor connections that can be exposed to cold air and wind. When temperatures fall below freezing, these areas become high risk points for frozen or burst pipes.

Step 1: Find the pipes that need protection

Start with anything outside or near an exterior wall. Walk the perimeter of your home and check your garage and attic access areas. Common freeze risk locations include outdoor hose bibs, pipes along exterior walls, garage plumbing, attic water lines, and irrigation components.

Step 2: Cover outdoor faucets first

Outdoor faucets are one of the most common sources of freeze damage in Baton Rouge. A simple faucet cover creates a buffer against wind and freezing air. If you do not have a faucet cover, wrap the faucet with a thick towel then cover it with plastic to keep moisture out and secure it tightly.

Step 3: Use foam insulation on exposed pipes

Foam pipe insulation sleeves are one of the best DIY tools for freeze protection. Cut the sleeves to length and fit them over exposed piping. Make sure seams are fully closed and extend coverage to elbows and joints where cold air can concentrate.

Step 4: Emergency wrap method if you cannot find insulation

If stores are sold out, you can still protect exposed pipes using household materials. Wrap the pipe tightly with towels or blankets then cover the wrap with plastic to block wind and moisture. Secure everything with zip ties or tape so the covering stays in place overnight.

Step 5: Should you drip faucets during a freeze

Yes. A steady drip can help reduce pressure inside the line and lower the chance of a burst pipe if freezing begins. Choose the faucet farthest from where water enters your home. A small steady drip is enough and in many homes it helps to drip both hot and cold lines.

Step 6: Do not forget the garage, attic, and irrigation lines

In Baton Rouge many freeze related plumbing problems start in unheated spaces. Check pipes in the garage and near attic access points. If you have an irrigation system, shut it off at the main valve and protect exposed backflow devices because they are especially vulnerable to freezing.

After the freeze: warning signs to watch for

When temperatures rise, inspect your home for issues. Reduced water pressure, discolored water, wet drywall, ceiling stains, or dripping sounds behind walls can signal freeze damage. If you suspect a burst pipe, shut off your main water supply and call a professional immediately.

Not a DIY person: winter freeze protection from Jake’s Pros

If you do not want to DIY, professional winter freeze protection is a smart option especially when cold snaps hit Baton Rouge with little notice. Jake’s Pros Plumbing can identify exposed plumbing, insulate and secure vulnerable areas, protect outdoor faucets, and help reduce the risk of frozen or burst pipes before temperatures drop.

This is a good fit if your home has hard to reach plumbing, older pipe materials, or you are unsure what needs to be covered. Preventing freeze damage is almost always cheaper than emergency repairs and water damage cleanup.

Serving Baton Rouge and nearby areas

Jake’s Pros Plumbing serves homeowners across Baton Rouge and surrounding communities. If a freeze is approaching and you want your plumbing protected properly, reaching out before the cold hits can help prevent a stressful emergency later.