Winter temperatures can be brutal on plumbing, and when pipes freeze, they can crack or burst, causing significant water damage to your home or business. A frozen pipe left unaddressed can lead to costly repairs, property damage, and even mold growth.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key steps to prevent frozen pipes, recognize the signs of trouble, and take immediate action if a pipe bursts. With the right approach and professional restoration when needed, you can keep your home or business safe all winter long.
A Closer Look at Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes occur when temperatures drop low enough to cause standing water inside plumbing lines to freeze and expand. This expansion creates pressure within the pipes, potentially leading to cracks or full bursts that release large amounts of water into your property. The risk is highest in areas with inadequate insulation, unheated spaces, or extreme cold snaps.
Common Signs of Frozen Pipes
Recognizing the warning signs of frozen pipes can help you take action before they burst. Take a look at some of the most common signs:
- Little to no water flow when turning on faucets.
- Frost accumulation on exposed pipes.
- Strange odors coming from drains (caused by trapped ice blocking airflow).
- Unusual sounds, such as clanking or banging, as water struggles to move through frozen areas.
The Dangers of Frozen Pipes
If a frozen pipe is left unaddressed, the consequences can be severe. A burst pipe can release hundreds of gallons of water into your home or business, leading to structural damage, ruined flooring and drywall, and potential mold growth. Not only that, but water exposure can weaken foundations, damage electrical systems, and create unsafe conditions.
Preventative Measures to Keep Pipes from Freezing
Insulate Exposed Pipes
One of the most effective ways to prevent frozen pipes is to insulate any plumbing that runs through unheated spaces, such as basements, attics, crawl spaces, and garages. Pipe insulation sleeves, heat tape, and foam pipe covers can all provide added protection against extreme cold.
For an extra layer of defense, consider wrapping pipes in old towels or blankets during particularly harsh weather. Sealing gaps or cracks in walls and around pipe openings can also help prevent cold air from reaching vulnerable plumbing.
Maintain Consistent Indoor Temperatures
Experts recommend setting your thermostat to at least 55°F (13°C) at all times, especially during cold snaps. Also, allowing warm air to circulate in areas where pipes are located can help. Keep cabinet doors open under sinks, particularly those along exterior walls, to let heated air reach plumbing.
Allow Faucets to Drip
Moving water is less likely to freeze, and even a slow trickle can relieve pressure inside pipes, reducing the risk of a rupture. Focus on letting faucets drip in the most vulnerable areas, such as those connected to pipes running through unheated spaces. Both hot and cold taps should be slightly open to ensure water movement throughout the system.
What to Do If Your Pipes Are Frozen
Locate and Assess the Frozen Pipe
If you suspect a frozen pipe, it’s important to locate it quickly before it bursts. Start by turning on faucets throughout your property—if only a trickle or no water flows from a fixture, the connected pipe may be frozen. Pipes most at risk are those in unheated areas like basements, attics, crawl spaces, and exterior walls.
Look for visible signs of freezing, such as frost buildup on the pipe, unusual bulging, or condensation. If the pipe is behind a wall, you may notice a cold spot or hear unusual sounds when turning on the faucet.
Safely Thawing Frozen Pipes
Once you’ve located a frozen pipe, the next step is to thaw it safely. Start by opening the nearest faucet slightly to allow water to flow once the ice begins to melt. Then, apply gentle heat to the frozen section using a hair dryer, heating pad, or space heater.
Move the heat source along the pipe slowly and evenly to prevent sudden pressure changes that could lead to bursting. Never use an open flame, such as a blowtorch or propane heater, to thaw pipes. Extreme heat can weaken the pipe material, increasing the risk of damage.
What to Do If a Pipe Bursts
A burst pipe can release large amounts of water into your home or business in minutes, so acting fast is critical.
- The first step is to find the main water supply and turn it off to stop the flow.
- Next, turn off the breaker in affected areas if water is near electrical outlets or appliances to eliminate safety hazards.
- Move furniture, electronics, and valuables away from standing water to prevent additional damage.
- Use towels, buckets, or a wet/dry vacuum to remove excess water while waiting for professional help.
Contacting Professional Help
Even after visible water is removed, moisture can linger inside walls, floors, and insulation. Our advanced drying techniques ensure all excess moisture is eliminated, preventing structural weakening and future mold growth. Calling experts right away can make the difference between minor repairs and a full-scale restoration project.
Why Professional Water Damage Restoration is Critical
Water damage from a burst pipe can be more extensive than it appears. Our team at BROADCO conducts thorough inspections to assess the full scope of the damage, including hidden moisture inside walls and flooring. Using industry-leading tools like thermal imaging and moisture meters, we detect problem areas that may not be visible to the naked eye.
One of the biggest risks after a pipe burst is mold growth. Mold can start developing within 24 to 48 hours of water exposure, leading to serious health concerns and further property damage. Our team uses industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers to eliminate excess moisture and prevent mold formation.
Protect Your Property with BROADCO’s Water Damage Experts
Winter weather can be unpredictable, but dealing with frozen or burst pipes doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At BROADCO Property Restoration, we have the experience, tools, and expertise to restore your property after water damage, whether it’s a minor leak or a major flood.
Your Trusted Water Damage Restoration Team in Michigan
If your home or business has suffered from frozen pipes, don’t wait for professional water damage restoration in Michigan. Our team is available 24/7 to provide emergency water extraction, drying, and repairs to protect your property from further damage. Reach out online, or call us at 877-910-4058 to get started.