Is It Normal for Water Pipes to Make Noises in the Attic?

Normal Noises

• Attic plumbing noises may be normal if they did not suddenly start and do not seem to be affecting the quality of your water pressure. Expect gushing and flowing noises from your attic when you turn on faucets. Sometimes pumps or boilers in attics will also make noises when they start to operate. If your ceiling is low in insulation or soundproofing, these noises may be more noticeable in certain areas, but are no cause for concern.

Water Hammer

• Water hammer results when sudden increases in pressure and valve changes create a high-pressure stream of water that pushes air in front of it. The result is a loud banging sound as the air strikes pipes and closed valves. Water hammer is strong enough to shake your pipes and reverberate through your house. It may be a sign that you need to install a pressure control system to alleviate the problem.

Pipe Brackets

• If you hear loud rattling sounds coming from your attic every time you use your water system, this may be a sign that the pipes in your attic are not properly attached. Pipes use fasteners and brackets to stay in place, especially near to boilers and other units where they must be install outside of the walls. Check your pipes in the attic for signs of loose or corroded brackets. Tightening your pipe fasteners can fix the rattling problem.

Pipe Changes

• Attics are often colder or warmer than the rest of the house, depending on the season. Metal pipes are sensitive to temperatures, and expand in warmth or contract in the cold. If the water temperature inside the pipes is suddenly different from the outer temperatures, your pipes will creak and groan as they adjust. Covering your attic pipes with liners and insulation can help prevent this problem.