Pipe Break? We're Here to Help®

1/3/2025 (Permalink)

Leave water damage restoration to the "PRO"s

Winter is in full swing in West Michigan, which means snowy conditions and colder temperatures. The Michigan Committee for Severe Weather Awareness reports that each winter, frozen water pipes damage approximately 250,000 homes. Even a small crack - just one-eighth of an inch - can lead to leaks of up to 250 gallons of water per day, causing extensive damage to floors, furniture, and personal belongings. Both PVC and copper pipes are susceptible to bursting under these conditions.

Here are some tips to help protect your home or business from water damage caused by frozen pipe bursts:

• Preventative Maintenance - 
  • Insulate pipes in areas most susceptible to freezing, such as crawl spaces and attics.
  • Approved heat tape, installed correctly, can be used to wrap pipes.
  • Use caulk or insulation to seal any air leaks around electrical wiring, dryer vents, and pipes.
  • Disconnect garden hoses, and if possible, use an indoor valve to shut off and drain water from pipes leading to outside faucets.
• If You Are Away - 
  • Set the thermostat no lower than 55 degrees and if your thermostat uses batteries, replace batteries before leaving.
  • Ask a neighbor or friend to check on your house daily.
  • Shut off and drain the main water system.

If your home or business suffers a pipe break, call SERVPRO of Allendale and SERVPRO of Greater Holland. "PRO" is in our name for a reason.