How Frozen Pipes Cause Water Damage

4/15/2021 (Permalink)

Freazing temperatures can damage your pipes

When you think of storm damage, you may naturally think of rain-related flooding. However, this isn't the only cause of water damage. Freezing temperatures can lead to a burst pipe, but you can protect your facilities from this issue when you know more about how this happens.

Water Damage Caused by Frozen Pipes

Exposed, Unheated Pipes

There are several areas in buildings where you're more likely to find a frozen pipe:

• Unheated spaces, such as garages, basements, unused upper stories
  
• Plumbing and other water systems on exterior walls
  
• Fire suppression systems
  
• Outdoor spigots
  

Any systems throughout your facilities that transport water could be affected by the low temperatures of winter storms. The risk is greater when sections of those piping systems have standing water.

Expanding Ice

There are two common ways that freezing temperatures can lead to a burst pipe in your Black Forest, CO, facility. The first is through expansion. As water freezes and becomes ice, it expands. If there's enough water in the pipes, it will cause the plastic or metal of the pipe to weaken. Eventually, it could weaken to the point of bursting. Additionally, the pipes themselves may expand as they freeze, further complicating the issue.

Thawing Temperatures

The second way a frozen pipe can lead to water damage happens when temperatures warm up, and the frozen water in the pipe begins to melt. If the ice stressed the pipes to the point of failure but didn't expand further, small cracks and leaks could form without notice. As the temperatures rise, and the ice turns to water, those leaks allow water to flood into basements, bathrooms, and other areas of your building.

Damage Prevention

It is possible to prevent these damages by adding insulation around exposed pipes. Consider reaching out to water damage cleanup and repair technicians for pro tips appropriate for your neighborhood. Consistent inspections and repairs will also prevent damage.

The more you know about how extreme weather and temperature changes can affect your pipes, the better you can avoid damage, such as a burst pipe. What are some problems you've experienced? How did you recover from the resulting damage?