Many Medford, Oregon, homeowners appreciate the beautiful landscape and the scenic nearby river. However, every city has risks that should be taken into consideration. In Medford, winter nights regularly dip into freezing temperatures, increasing the risk of frozen pipes in residential homes. Frozen plumbing damage often causes hidden water leaks in the winter, which can occur behind walls, underneath floors, and in crawlspaces. If the water damage is not addressed quickly and correctly, it can lead to increased health risks, structural failure, and even mold infestation.
Why Frozen Pipes Are a Winter Risk in Medford
Southern Oregon winters can often have extreme temperature swings, especially at night. This can catch homeowners by surprise and leave their homes unprepared for extreme winter weather. Older homes also face a higher risk of winter pipe bursts in Medford, OR. Aging plumbing lines are more prone to cracks or fractures under pressure, and older homes are more likely to have poorly insulated areas where freezing temperatures can more easily affect pipes.
How Frozen Pipes Lead to Water Damage
When water inside pipes freezes, it turns to ice and expands. This ice creates internal pressure that can crack or split pipe walls. However, the damage is often difficult to notice until the ice thaws and the meltwater rushes through the damaged sections. This leads to water leaks or flooding, causing damage that spreads through drywall, flooring, and insulation.
High-Risk Areas Homeowners Should Watch Closely
Poor insulation is one of the main reasons for frozen pipes and water damage. While the areas with poor insulation can vary from home to home, there are common problem areas that homeowners should be aware of. Take note of the following spaces:
- Exterior wall plumbing
- Crawlspaces and basements
- Garages and utility rooms
- Under sinks near exterior walls
- Attics with exposed pipes
Warning Signs of Frozen Pipe Water Damage
There are signs of frozen pipes and water damage from bursts that homeowners need to watch out for. Knowing the common signs can help you identify and respond to cold-weather plumbing issues quickly, which is vital. Here are some common indicators of frozen or burst pipes.
- No or reduced water flow
- Frost on exposed pipes
- Damp or musty odors
- Water stains on ceilings or walls
- Unexpected increase in water bills
How to Prevent Frozen Pipes
One of the main factors involved with preventing frozen pipe water damage is to stop the exterior temperatures from reaching your pipes. However, there are other preventative measures that you can take to avoid frozen plumbing damage. Here is how to prevent frozen pipes.
- Insulate exposed pipes.
- Keep indoor temperatures consistent.
- Let faucets drip during extreme cold.
- Seal drafts near plumbing lines.
How ServiceMaster of Medford Handles Frozen Pipe Damage
ServiceMaster of Medford is here to guide homeowners through winter water damage restoration. Our team uses its expert training and certification to not only address immediate water-related issues but also to safeguard your property against future events. We follow a meticulous water damage restoration process to ensure that our clients’ homes are returned to their pre-damaged condition. Our process includes:
- Inspection and assessment of the damage.
- Basic drying and emergency water removal in the winter.
- Moisture detection to locate hidden damage.
- Structural drying and dehumidification.
- Repairing or replacing damaged materials.
A Fast and Professional Response Can Make All the Difference with Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes can cause severe winter water damage if not addressed quickly and properly. To make matters worse, many homeowners do not recognize the water damage until it becomes a major disaster.
Fortunately, ServiceMaster of Medford is here to help. We provide water damage restoration services and make it our mission to help homeowners in any way we can. Our team even makes itself available 24/7 to respond to water damage emergencies all day and night. Contact us today for reliable burst pipe cleanup and restoration in Medford.
FAQ Section
Why do pipes freeze in winter?
Cold temperatures cause water inside plumbing lines to freeze and expand, creating internal pressure that presses against and cracks pipe walls.
Can frozen pipes burst after they thaw?
Yes, most pipe failures occur when frozen pipes thaw, and the meltwater rushes through the damaged areas.
Are frozen pipe leaks always visible?
No, many leaks occur inside walls or crawlspaces.
How fast does water damage spread after a pipe bursts?
Water can spread through flooring and walls within minutes.
When should I call a restoration professional?
Homeowners should call restoration experts immediately after discovering frozen pipes or water damage.
