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What Happens to Wet Materials in Cold Temperatures?

Last updated October 25, 2026

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The short answer

Freezing and Expansion

When water freezes, it expands by about 9 percent. That expansion pushes against the material holding it. In a pipe, the ice can crack metal or plastic. In wood, the ice can split fibers and warp boards. In drywall, the frozen water can crumble the paper and gypsum core.

How Cold Slows Drying

Cold air holds much less moisture than warm air, so evaporation slows dramatically. Even if you run fans or open windows, the air may not absorb water fast enough. Wet insulation, carpet, and drywall can stay damp for days or weeks in cold conditions.

Keep the heat on in the affected room, but be careful with space heaters near wet materials. Use a dehumidifier to pull moisture from the air. Open cabinets and drawers so air can reach all wet surfaces. The goal is to dry materials before they freeze or start to mold.

  • Frozen pipes can burst and cause more water damage
  • Wet wood may crack or warp as ice expands
  • Drywall can lose strength and crumble after freezing
  • Carpet padding may hold water for weeks in cold
  • Mold can start growing even in cold, damp conditions

What to Do First

Start by removing any standing water with a wet/dry vacuum or mop. The less water left in materials, the less ice can form. If you can, turn up the heat in the room to keep the temperature above freezing. Open doors and windows only if the outside air is warmer than inside.

Move furniture, rugs, and boxes out of the wet area if possible. Place them in a warmer, dry spot. For heavy items you cannot move, try to lift them off the floor with blocks or foil. This lets air circulate underneath and helps them dry faster.

If you suspect a pipe is frozen, do not use a torch or open flame to thaw it. That can start a fire or damage the pipe. Instead, use a hair dryer or heat lamp, and keep the faucet open so water can flow as it melts. If you cannot thaw it safely, call a plumber.

When to Call the Pros

Some wet materials cannot be dried and must be removed. Wet insulation, for example, loses its R-value when soaked and can harbor mold. Water-damaged drywall may need to be cut out and replaced. If you have large areas of wet material, the pros can help you decide what can be saved.

The pros use industrial fans, heaters, and dehumidifiers to dry out structures. They also have moisture meters to check if materials are truly dry. If you have standing water that you cannot remove, or if the water is from a sewage backup or flood, call local water damage pros. They have the equipment to handle big jobs.

  • Turn off the water supply to the affected area
  • Shut off electricity in rooms with standing water
  • Wear rubber boots and gloves when handling wet materials
  • Do not use electrical appliances near standing water
  • Keep children and pets away from the wet area

Preventing Future Freeze Damage

To avoid frozen pipes, keep your home heated to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit, even when you are away. Insulate pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, and crawl spaces. Disconnect garden hoses and drain outdoor faucets before winter.

If you have a crawl space or basement that gets cold, consider adding pipe insulation or heat tape. Seal any gaps where cold air can enter. If you leave for several days, ask someone to check your home for leaks or freezing. A small drip from a faucet can help prevent ice from forming in pipes.

Knowing where your main water shutoff valve is located can save you time if a pipe bursts. Write the location down and keep it near your water heater or on the inside of a cabinet door. Cold winters are a real concern for water damage, so take steps to protect your home before temperatures drop.

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Frequently asked questions

Can wet drywall survive freezing?

Usually not. When the water in drywall freezes, it expands and breaks the gypsum core and paper. Even if it dries, the drywall may be crumbly and weak. You likely need to remove and replace any drywall that has frozen while wet.

Should I turn off the heat if my pipes are frozen?

No, keep the heat on. Turning off the heat can make the freeze worse and cause more pipes to burst. Instead, warm the area around the frozen pipe with a hair dryer or space heater, and call a plumber if you cannot thaw it safely.

How long does it take for wet materials to dry in cold weather?

It can take much longer than in warm weather, often several days or weeks. Without heat and dehumidifiers, drying may be very slow. Using fans and a dehumidifier can speed up the process, but some materials may still need to be removed.

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