Water Damage Cleanup From Frozen Pipes

Temperatures are beginning to get colder and colder here in Yakima and, before we know it, it is going to be freezing around here. When temperatures drop below freezing, 32 degrees Fahrenheit, our pipes can take a pretty big hit. Frozen pipes are at an increased risk of bursting which can leave your home in need of some serious water damage cleanup. 

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We are going to go through some of the most common questions we get asked about frozen pipes so we can help you be prepared for the possible water damage cleanup that may result from them.

Why Do Frozen Pipes Leak?

Pipes burst or spring leaks when the pressure inside of them gets too high. Frozen pipes are at an increased risk of bursting because of the frozen water housed in them. Let’s have a quick biology lesson to understand this a little clearer. When water freezes, the molecules condense into an open hexagonal structure that occupies a greater volume than the structure of water. For this reason, when water freezes into ice, it expands. The pressure inside the pipe increases, especially between the obstruction from the frozen water and the faucet, as a result of the expansion that takes place when it freezes. Once the pressure gets high enough, the pipe will burst in order to release said pressure. Whatever water in the pipe that is still in liquid form can then escape the pipe and flood into your home. 

Which Pipes In My Home Can Freeze?

The pipes that are most likely to burst due to freezing conditions are those positioned outside of your home’s insulation, such as exterior faucets, or those located in garages, basements, attics, crawl spaces, or other interior areas that are not heated. 

How Can I Prevent Pipes From Freezing?

Some of our suggestions to keep vulnerable pipes from freezing are:

• Insulate exposed pipes to keep heat inside. Mineral or glass wool, flexible elastomeric foam, rigid foam, and cellular glass are a few popular types of pipe insulation. Most neighborhood hardware stores carry various types of pipe insulation that are simple to use and install. 
• Open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air circulate around the pipes that are stored inside cabinets and keep your faucet turned on just enough to keep a trickle of water running. This will help prevent the pressure inside the pipe from growing too high and keep the water constantly flowing so it cannot freeze. 
• Maintain a warm temperature in your home by keeping your thermostat at a set temperature. Be sure to open air vents throughout your home so the warm air can circulate more efficiently. 

What Should I Do If I Find Water Damage From A Frozen Pipe?

Whenever you need water damage cleanup in your home, whether from a frozen pipe or any other cause, give Clean Image Services a call. Our water damage cleanup technicians are experienced and prepared to handle your situation as soon as we get the call. Stay warm this winter, keep an eye out for frozen pipes, and be sure to give us a call when you need water damage cleanup services in Yakima.