How SERVPRO Can Help Homeowners Recover from Water Damage After Freezing Temperatures Break a Pipe

3/3/2025 (Permalink)

A burst pipe floods this basement after freezing temperatures, leaving behind a soggy mess ready for cleanup

Winter can be a magical season—snow-dusted landscapes, cozy nights by the fire—but it can also bring unexpected challenges for homeowners. When temperatures plummet below freezing, water pipes are at risk of turning into ticking time bombs. As water freezes, it expands, exerting pressure that can crack or burst pipes. Once the ice thaws, the result is often a flood that soaks walls, floors, and belongings. If you’ve found yourself facing this nightmare, don’t panic—SERVPRO is here to help. With their expertise, advanced equipment, and 24/7 availability, they can turn a water-damaged disaster into a distant memory. Here’s how SERVPRO steps in to save the day.The Problem: Frozen Pipes and Water DamageWhen the mercury drops, especially below 20°F (-6°C), pipes in unheated areas like basements, crawlspaces, or exterior walls become vulnerable. The water inside freezes, expands, and—crack!—the pipe splits. You might not notice until the thaw begins, and suddenly, water is gushing into your home. This isn’t just a mess; it’s a potential catastrophe. Left unchecked, water can warp wood, ruin drywall, soak insulation, and foster mold growth. The longer it sits, the worse it gets. That’s where SERVPRO comes in with a rapid, professional response tailored to this exact scenario.Step 1: Emergency Response—Stopping the FloodSERVPRO knows that time is critical when water invades your home. That’s why they’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, even during holidays. As soon as you call, a team is dispatched to your location—often within hours. Their first move? Stop the source. If you haven’t already shut off the main water supply, they’ll help locate and close the valve to halt the flow. For a burst pipe caused by freezing, they’ll assess the damage and ensure no more water adds to the chaos. This quick action minimizes the spread, setting the stage for effective restoration.Step 2: Water Removal and Damage AssessmentWith the leak under control, SERVPRO’s highly trained technicians get to work extracting standing water. Using industrial-grade pumps and wet vacuums, they remove the bulk of the floodwater fast. But it’s not just about what you can see—water seeps into hidden spaces like under flooring or behind walls. SERVPRO uses advanced moisture-detection tools to pinpoint every affected area. They’ll inspect your home thoroughly, identifying what can be saved and what needs replacement, all while keeping you informed. This detailed assessment ensures nothing is overlooked, preventing future headaches like mold or structural damage.Step 3: Drying and DehumidificationEven after the visible water is gone, your home isn’t out of the woods. Porous materials like wood, drywall, and carpet hold onto moisture, creating a breeding ground for mold if not dried properly. SERVPRO brings in heavy-duty air movers and dehumidifiers to tackle this invisible threat. They strategically place equipment to dry out every nook and cranny, monitoring progress daily to ensure your home returns to a safe moisture level. This step is crucial after a frozen pipe bursts—it’s not just about cleaning up; it’s about protecting your home’s long-term health.Step 4: Cleaning and SanitizingWater from a broken pipe can carry contaminants, especially if it’s been sitting for a while or mixed with debris. SERVPRO doesn’t just dry your home—they clean it too. They sanitize affected surfaces to eliminate bacteria and odors, using specialized products and techniques. Your belongings aren’t forgotten either. From furniture to family heirlooms, SERVPRO’s content restoration experts assess what can be salvaged, cleaning and deodorizing items to bring them back to pre-damage condition. It’s all part of their promise: “Like it never even happened.”Step 5: Restoration and RepairsOnce your home is dry and clean, SERVPRO finishes the job by restoring it to its original state—or better. This might mean minor fixes like replacing a section of drywall or repainting a wall. In more severe cases, they can handle major repairs, such as rebuilding entire rooms damaged by the flood. With over 2,280 locations across the U.S. and Canada, SERVPRO has the resources and expertise to manage projects of any size. They even coordinate with your insurance provider, handling paperwork to make the claims process as smooth as possible.Why Choose SERVPRO?Frozen pipes don’t wait for convenient times, and neither does SERVPRO. Their nationwide network means there’s always a team nearby, ready to respond. With more than 50 years in the cleanup and restoration industry, they’ve seen it all—and fixed it all. Their technicians are certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), so you’re getting top-tier service backed by science and skill. Plus, their “restore vs. replace” approach saves you money and preserves what matters most.Prevention Tips for Next TimeWhile SERVPRO can rescue your home after a pipe bursts, a little preparation can help avoid the problem altogether. Insulate exposed pipes with foam sleeves, keep your thermostat steady (even when you’re away), and let faucets drip during extreme cold snaps to keep water moving. These small steps can spare you the stress of a winter flood.The Bottom LineA broken pipe from freezing temperatures can feel like a disaster, but it doesn’t have to be the end of the story. SERVPRO’s fast response, thorough process, and commitment to quality mean your home can bounce back stronger than ever. If you’re facing water damage this winter, don’t wait—call SERVPRO. They’ll handle the mess so you can get back to enjoying your home, no matter what the weather throws your way.