Winter brings us beautiful snowy landscapes and cozy nights by the fire, but along with that, it also introduces challenges. One of the most common is frozen pipes. When water freezes, it expands, increasing the risk of pipe damage and subsequent water leaks. According to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), a one-eighth-inch (3-millimeter) crack in a pipe can spew up to 250 gallons of water a day, causing significant property damage and disruption. Helping you understand these causes and preventive measures for frozen pipes is crucial for homeowners aiming to protect their properties during the colder months.

Why Do Frozen Pipes Lead to Leaks?
The main culprit behind frozen pipe leaks is the expansion of water as it freezes. When water within the pipes freezes, it expands, exerting immense pressure on the pipe's structure, especially at joints and fittings. This pressure can lead to cracks and eventual leaks. Pipes located in uninsulated or exposed areas, such as basements, attics, or crawl spaces, are particularly susceptible to freezing and bursting. The American Red Cross notes that pipes running against exterior walls with little or no insulation are at high risk of freezing.

How to Spot Frozen Pipe Issues
It’s crucial to recognize the warning signs of frozen pipes before significant damage occurs. If you notice water dripping from a faucet even when it’s turned off, wet spots on walls or ceilings, or visible cracks along the pipes, these are all signs that something might be wrong. Acting quickly at the first sign of trouble can prevent further damage and save you time and money. 

Prevention Strategies
Preventing frozen pipes requires you to be proactive! During freezing temperatures, allowing a slight trickle of water to flow through faucets connected to vulnerable pipes can prevent freezing. Maintaining your home’s thermostat at a temperature above 55°F, even when you're away, ensures that pipes remain warm enough to prevent freezing. Lastly, knowing the location of your main water shut-off valve is so important, so you can act quickly if there is a leak that occurs.

Why Frozen Pipes Are an Emergency
Frozen pipes are more than just an inconvenience; they can quickly escalate into a significant problem if they are not addressed immediately. When water inside a pipe freezes, it expands, creating immense pressure that can lead to cracks or bursts in the pipe. This is a real problem and can result in flooding, extensive water damage, and the need for expensive repairs that disrupt your home and daily life. In fact, according to the Insurance Information Institute, water damage and freezing account for nearly 29% of all homeowner insurance claims. Understanding why frozen pipes an emergency are and acting swiftly can make the difference between a manageable issue and a disaster. 

Immediate Steps to Take
If you suspect a frozen pipe in your home, your first step should be to identify the problem area as quickly as possible. Start by looking for visible signs, such as areas with reduced water flow, cold spots along the pipe, or frost forming on the pipe’s surface. Once you’ve pinpointed the frozen section, shut off the water supply to minimize the risk of flooding. This can be done by turning off the main water valve, typically located in a basement or near where the water line enters your home. Acting quickly in these situations can prevent water from spilling into your home if the pipe bursts, potentially saving you time and money in repairs. It’s important to remember that delaying action can make the damage worse, leading to larger-scale water damage that is far more expensive and time-consuming to address.

How to Safely Thaw Frozen Pipes
After turning off the water supply, your next step is to safely thaw the frozen section of the pipe to restore water flow, preventing further damage. Start by using a safe heat source, such as a hairdryer, a heating pad, or warm towels wrapped around the pipe. Move the heat source slowly and evenly along the frozen section, ensuring you don’t overheat any specific spot. AVOID using open flames, propane torches, or other extreme heat sources, as these can damage the pipe material, create fire hazards, and worsen the situation. If you notice damage, take immediate action to prevent further complications.

Preventing Future Problems
During extremely cold weather, allowing faucets connected to vulnerable pipes to drip slightly ensures a continuous flow of water, which makes freezing less likely. Opening cabinet doors under sinks allow warm air from your home to circulate the pipes, particularly those located on exterior walls. Sealing gaps, cracks, or openings around doors, windows, and pipe entry points with caulk can is also great for cold air out and warm air in, providing an added layer of protection. With these measures in place, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of dealing with frozen pipes again in the future.

When to Call Us
In most cases, addressing frozen pipes is a task best left to professionals, especially when the situation involves complex repairs or severe water damage. If you’re unable to locate or safely thaw a frozen pipe, suspect hidden leaks within walls or ceilings, or notice widespread water damage, it’s time to call in experts who can handle the problem efficiently. New Method Restoration offers 24/7 emergency water restoration services to help you manage frozen pipe disasters and minimize property damage. Our team of experienced professionals specializes in water extraction, repairs, and restoration, ensuring your home is returned to its original condition as quickly as possible. We understand the urgency of these situations and are committed to providing reliable, effective solutions. Contact us today at 888-898-1768 or visit newmethodrestoration.com for immediate assistance and peace of mind during this winter season.