While Indiana winters can vary in the amount of snow that falls each year, freezing temperatures can always be expected. In South Bend, overnight temperatures frequently drop below 32°F. The consistently freezing air increases the risk of winter-related damage to houses in the area.
Frozen pipes, for example, are a common issue for Indiana homeowners, and without a quick and proper response, they can lead to major water damage. However, there are other forms of winter-related issues outside of frozen pipe water damage that homeowners should also be prepared for.
Why Frozen Pipes Are a Common Winter Issue in South Bend
South Bend, Indiana, can have prolonged cold snaps and harsh wind chills that can drop temperatures unexpectedly. This is partly due to the effect of Lake Michigan, which can increase the intensity of winter weather. The city also contains many older homes with aging insulation and plumbing lines. Pipes located along exterior walls or in poorly insulated spaces are especially at risk.
How Frozen Pipes Cause Winter Water Damage
Despite what many people believe, the danger of frozen pipes comes after they begin to thaw. When pipes are exposed to freezing temperatures, the water inside turns to ice. As the ice expands, it applies pressure against the pipe walls, creating cracks and fractures. Once the pipe thaws, water flows through the damaged areas, which often leads to leaks or sudden bursts. Water from pipe bursts can quickly spread through drywall, flooring, and insulation.
Areas of the Home Most at Risk
There are common characteristics that most vulnerable spaces to frozen pipes and water damage share. For one, poorly insulated areas are extremely at risk as cold air can easily enter a home. However, homeowners should also regularly inspect low-traffic areas with plumbing lines. These pipes may develop issues that homeowners only notice when it’s too late. Here are the most vulnerable areas for frozen pipe water damage.
- Basements and crawlspaces.
- Exterior wall plumbing.
- Garages and utility rooms.
- Under sinks along outside walls.
Warning Signs of Frozen Pipe Water Damage
While knowing the problem areas of a house can be critical, it’s also important to be able to identify the warning signs of a frozen pipe throughout the house. Take note of the following common indicators:
- Reduced or no water flow in certain faucets.
- Frost developing on exposed pipes.
- Damp or musty odors from sewage water leaking or mold growth.
- Water stains or bubbling paint on ceilings, walls, or floors.
How to Prevent Frozen Pipes in Winter
Preventing frozen pipes is always the preferred course of action to take. A single burst pipe can cause extensive water damage to belongings and structural materials beyond repair. Here are some ways to prevent frozen pipe water damage in the winter.
- Insulate exposed plumbing lines.
- Maintain consistent indoor heat and ensure that it is evenly distributed.
- Allow faucets to drip during extreme cold weather.
- Seal construction gaps or drafts around plumbing lines.
How ServiceMaster by Monroe Restoration – South Bend Helps with Winter Water Damage
Whether you’re trying to protect your home from disasters with pre-loss plans or trying to recover from one, ServiceMaster by Monroe Restoration — South Bend is here to help. Our team is thoroughly trained and highly certified in various damage restoration services, including water damage. As locals to the South Bend area, we also bring unique expertise about the conditions, terrain, and construction patterns in the city. Below is an overview of our winter water damage restoration process.
- Emergency water removal and basic drying.
- Moisture detection to locate hidden damage.
- Structural drying and dehumidification.
- Restoration planning to prevent recurrence.
- Disinfection and mold prevention.
- Repairing or replacing structural materials
Local Experts You Can Trust for Winter Water Damage Restoration
Winter pipe bursts can escalate into catastrophic situations quickly. Within minutes, a single burst pipe can cause flooding, electrical hazards, and hidden damage that worsens over time.
Restoration experts are well-versed in frozen plumbing issues and are equipped to address any hidden damage from the water leak. If you are dealing with a frozen or burst pipe, contact ServiceMaster by Monroe Restoration – South Bend today for dependable residential water damage in the winter.
FAQ Section
Why do pipes freeze in the winter?
Cold temperatures can seep inside through poorly insulated areas, causing the water inside the pipes to freeze. This creates pressure that can push against the pipe walls and create cracks. When the pipe thaws again, the meltwater rushes through the damaged sections.
Can pipes burst after they thaw?
Ice inside a pipe will expand and apply pressure against the pipe walls, creating cracks. When the pipe thaws again, the meltwater rushes through the damaged sections. This leads to leaks and burst pipes.
Are frozen pipe leaks always visible?
Many plumbing lines are located behind walls or under flooring, which makes these pipe leaks difficult to identify visually.
How quickly does water damage spread?
Water can spread throughout a home within minutes. Porous materials, like drywall, can also absorb and retain water for long periods of time.
When should I call a restoration professional?
Homeowners should contact restoration professionals immediately after discovering frozen pipes or water damage.
