Changes in winter weather patterns have proved very challenging for homeowners in Suwanee. Water damage from frozen pipes is relatively uncommon in our area, but all it takes is a day or two of the recent cold snaps for exposed plumbing to stretch, warp, crack, and burst from the pressure of the fluids expanding inside the lines. Once the water thaws, it can seep through even tiny cracks and pour from larger ruptures.  

Frozen Pipes Cause Significant Water Damage 

Given that weather patterns seem more challenging to predict, homeowners in areas previously considered safe from frozen plumbing must be proactive. Presuming that pipes stressed by the force of expanding ice are a minor inconvenience can be a costly and disruptive mistake. Emerson, a 125-year-old U.S.-founded international leader in engineering, estimates 250 gallons of water daily can escape a tiny 1/8-inch crack developed during freezing after thawing. Imagine how devastating the flow would be from a wholly burst pipe.  

Compounding the problem is the “sneaky” nature of frozen pipe damage. You might only note a decrease in water pressure during the freeze--or not notice anything if it happens while away from your property. The damaging potential reveals itself hours to days later when water seeps or suddenly sprays and gushes from one or often many breaks in the plumbing lines. Adverse results include: 

  • Soaked building materials, frequently in hidden cavities 

  • Potential for substantial weakening and even collapse of structural elements 

  • Increased chance of mold growth and damage, visible and found behind, above, and beneath structures 

Managing Frozen Pipe Damage Potential 

  • If the Damage Is Done 

AdvantaClean of Norcross and Buford responds swiftly to your call for water damage assistance if frozen pipes catch you unaware. Our Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC)-certified technicians stop active incursion of supply-side water immediately if you have not done so already and help arrange plumbing repairs. We assess the damage and create and begin implementing a comprehensive water removal and structural drying agenda, preparing for restoration strategies. 

  • Before the Damage Occurs--Now or Future 

Avoiding frozen pipes is an attainable goal, obviously much preferable to coping with the water damage cleanup and repair after an unprotected freeze. And if you have recently suffered from the aftermath of frozen pipes, there is no better time to put protections in place to prevent future damage. AdvantaClean of Norcross and Buford recommend the following tips to keep pipes from freezing: 

  • Before Temperatures Plummet 

  • Insulate or use heat tape on pipes running along exterior walls and through unheated spaces in basements, attics, crawl spaces, and garages/other outbuildings. Include pipes running through cabinets and closets blocked from heat sources. 

  • Drain and disconnect hoses connected to outdoor faucets and winterize sprinkler systems as instructed by the manufacturer. Insulate outdoor faucets (hose bibs) with covers and turn off the water supply to the faucet inside the house. 

  • After Temperatures Drop 

  • Allow indoor faucets to trickle, choosing the faucet furthest from the water main/water heater--moving water is less likely to freeze. 

  • Keep closet and cabinet doors open to facilitate warm airflow. 

  • When You Are Away 

During a long work day, a weekend trip, or extended travel, ensure a flooded home does not greet your return. 

  • Set thermostats at 55 degrees Fahrenheit or above. 

  • Drain and shut off your home’s water system at the main valve. 

  • Arrange for someone to check your home during freezing weather. 

Implement the practical and common-sense steps recommended by AdvantaClean of Norcross and Buford to prevent frozen pipes from devastating your Suwanee with water damage. If water damage occurs before you can put protections in place, our IICRC-trained team is ready to assess, mitigate, remediate, and restore affected areas in your home.

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