Thawing Frozen Pipes Before Spring Arrives

4/18/2018 (Permalink)

It happens almost every year as winter strikes. Snow may build up in driveways, nor’easters can batter and assault buildings, and power outages often hit when temperatures are below zero. However, as suddenly as it began in Oklahoma City, OK, winter ends, and spring arrives with a promise of warmth and a spring thaw. Often with spring’s arrival comes flooding and building damage due to frozen pipes. Business owners and commercial building managers can often minimize the hazard of spring thaw by being prepared and taking early action to prevent frozen water pipes from damaging property.

Thawing a Frozen Pipe

Water expands when it freezes and can put incredible pressure on a surrounding pipe. No matter how strong the metal or plastic is, the frozen water can cause the pipe to crack, tear, or break, and then ultimately cause flooding. Preventing ice-covered pipes may be the best possible solution to water damage prevention, but since it is impossible to control Mother Nature’s blistery cold spells, other measures can be taken to prevent water damage once a frozen pipe is found. Here are some ideas on how to deal with icy pipes.

• Turn a faucet on and leave it running. As the water thaws, the speed of the running water can aid in melting built-up ice in pipes.
• Run water in all faucets in the building to see if any hidden pipes may be frozen. 
• After finding a frozen area of pipe, use a hair dryer, heating pad, or space heater to warm the pipe and surrounding area. 
• If the frozen plumbing is not accessible, contact a licensed plumber.

Minimizing Water Damage

Once the plumbing has thawed, damaged pipes may bring a spring flood into the building. At the first sign of water damage due to burst pipes, contact a flood restoration team. The team’s expertise can aid them in helping to remove standing water and in sanitizing the flooded area. Preventing spring water damage and quickly addressing possible flooding can save major restoration costs, mold issues, and possibly eliminate the need for extensive repairs. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROofsouthoklahomacity.com/.