Dealing with Winter Water Damage

In the event of a broken pipe, the water must be immediately shut off to ensure that water does not continue to flow and cause further damage.

Unseasonably warm temperatures can have drastic effects on a home’s plumbing system. Liquid expands when it freezes, meaning frozen water in pipes can expand and cause cracks. If this frozen water suddenly melts on an unseasonably warm day, the water could spill through the cracks, causing leaking and water damage to the surrounding areas. Homeowners should consider the following tips so that if a pipe in their home bursts, they can take quick action and avoid further damage.

Turn off running water

In the event of a broken pipe, the water must be immediately shut off to ensure that water does not continue to flow and cause further damage. Be sure to know the location of the shut-off valve so that it can be accessed quickly. Only enter the flooded area with proper protection, ideally waterproof boots, as the water is likely cold and dirty. Remove any valuable items from the space and have all family members vacate the area.

Call a professional

A broken pipe is not an issue that the average homeowner can tackle. Call a professional plumber and ask for immediate assistance. Identifying the source of a plumbing leak is challenging, but experienced plumbers know how to locate broken pipes while avoiding unnecessary damage quickly. A professional can resolve the issue on the same day, provide details of the damage, and recommend the next best course of action, as every situation is unique and requires a different approach.

Clean and repair the space

Once the pipe has been repaired, the surrounding area is likely to be left dirty and damaged. A professional cleaning service may be needed to remove water stains in the surrounding areas, while other professionals may need to help repair drywall or carpeting. Consulting professionals can save time and money and restore the home to working order.

As the weather changes, be sure to find the water shut-off valve, check on all home areas that aren’t frequently entered, like the basement or storage area, and keep an eye on the water pressure, which can change when pipes freeze. Ideally, a frozen pipe is identified before it can burst and cause damage, but not all homeowners can be so lucky. Keep an eye out for signs of frozen pipes throughout the winter, and have a plan of action if a frozen pipe occurs.

With over 25 years of experience, American Discount Plumbing has offered expert plumbing service and repair in Phoenix, Arizona, and surrounding cities at affordable rates for both residential and commercial properties. We are a licensed, bonded, and insured plumbing company offering 24-hour emergency service. We provide lasting general plumbing, water leak detection and repair, toilet repair, pipe repair, and water heater repair or replacement solutions. Call 602-883-2787 today!