Winter and Pipes That Burst

3/14/2017 (Permalink)

A commercial warehouse/ office that suffered a burst pipe

What exactly causes a burst pipe?

 The cold weather season may be great for those who love to ski or snowboard but those who own/rent a house, may feel less enticed by the decreasing temperatures.

Polar vortexes, frosts and reoccurring cold fronts can cause severe damages to the pipes in and outside your home. While several factors can result in a burst pipe, the main reason is freezing temperatures. When the water inside a pipe freezes, the freezing process causes the water to expand thus creating pressure on the pipe from within. Additionally, trickles of water may still be flowing through and in between the frozen walls of the pipes.

 All combined, the pressure becomes too great and the pipe ruptures at a weaker joint or even in the middle at times. As pipes can run from underground, outside and up through your home, the amount of water damage can be extensive and costly.

 Tips:

• Install a regular seasonal maintenance plan-i.e. disconnect and drain any outdoor hoses before the cold weather; as one of these bursting can cause extensive damage to your entire plumbing system


• For plumbing pipes located in an unheated area of your home or business, consider foam pipe insulation ($50-$200 depending on length)


• If you migrate to a warmer climate throughout any extended time during the winter months; make sure your furnace is set no lower than 55 degrees and the main water supply is shut-off during the time you are away

 Check out our water damage section to see how we can make it, "Like it never even happened.", if you find yourself dealing with a burst pipe!