Flooding from Frozen Pipes: A Winter Risk Homeowners Shouldn’t Ignore
When winter temperatures drop, frozen pipes become one of the most common—and costly—causes of water damage in homes and businesses. What many people don’t realize is that the real damage often happens after the pipe thaws. At Heritage Restoration, we regularly help property owners recover from flooding caused by frozen and burst pipes, and we know how disruptive and overwhelming it can be.
Understanding why frozen pipes burst, how flooding occurs, and what to do next can make a critical difference in limiting damage and restoring your property quickly.
Why Frozen Pipes Cause Flooding
Water expands as it freezes. When water inside a pipe freezes, pressure builds up between the ice blockage and the closed faucet. Eventually, the pipe can crack or burst—often in an area you can’t easily see, such as inside walls, ceilings, or crawl spaces.
Once temperatures rise and the ice begins to thaw, water flows freely through the damaged pipe, leading to rapid flooding. In many cases, homeowners don’t discover the problem until significant damage has already occurred.
Common Areas at Risk
Certain pipes are more vulnerable to freezing, including those located in:
Unheated basements or crawl spaces
Attics and exterior walls
Garages
Cabinets under sinks on outside walls
Homes left unattended during cold weather are especially at risk, as leaks may go unnoticed for hours—or even days.
Signs of Frozen or Burst Pipes
Catching the problem early can help reduce damage. Warning signs include:
Little or no water coming from faucets
Unusual odors from drains
Frost on exposed pipes
Water stains on walls or ceilings
Sounds of dripping or rushing water when no fixtures are in use
If you suspect a frozen or burst pipe, it’s important to act quickly.
What to Do If a Pipe Bursts
If a pipe bursts and causes flooding:
Shut off the main water supply immediately.
Turn off electricity in affected areas if it’s safe to do so.
Contact a professional restoration company to assess and mitigate the damage.
Avoid using household fans or heaters improperly, as this can worsen damage or create safety risks.
Water from burst pipes can soak into flooring, drywall, insulation, and personal belongings, creating conditions for mold growth if not addressed promptly.
How Heritage Restoration Helps
At Heritage Restoration, we provide comprehensive water damage restoration services designed to minimize disruption and restore your property efficiently. Our process includes:
Rapid water extraction
Structural drying and dehumidification
Damage assessment and documentation
Mold prevention and remediation if needed
Repairs and restoration to pre-loss condition
Our experienced team uses professional-grade equipment and proven techniques to ensure moisture is fully removed—not just what’s visible on the surface.
Preventing Frozen Pipe Damage
While restoration is essential after a loss, prevention can save time, stress, and money. Consider these steps during cold weather:
Insulate exposed pipes
Keep indoor temperatures consistent, even when away
Open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate
Let faucets drip slightly during extreme cold
Have your plumbing system inspected before winter
Trusted Help When You Need It Most
Flooding from frozen pipes can happen quickly and without warning, but you don’t have to handle the aftermath alone. Heritage Restoration is committed to helping homeowners and businesses recover with care, professionalism, and attention to detail.
If your property has experienced water damage from frozen or burst pipes, contact Heritage Restoration right away. The sooner restoration begins, the better the outcome.