Frozen Pipes in Blaine Washington

4/5/2021 (Permalink)

Example of a Burst Copper Pipe

Frozen water in copper pipes can lead to burst pipes. The damaged pipe is tied to pressure rather than the ice. The frozen pipe is blocked, causing water pressure to build up behind it. Eventually, the pressure builds up enough that the pipe bursts.

When the ice begins to melt is when the pressure issues are often the worst. The pressure as the water rushes through the pipes can also cause bursting.

Generally, houses in Washington are built with pipes located on the inside of the building insulation. This usually protects them from subfreezing weather, although extreme cold, insufficient insulation and holes that allow cold air to come into contact with pipes can still lead to freezing and bursting.

Pipes begin freeze at about 20 degrees Fahrenheit, even if it hasn’t been that cold for long. However, when it gets below 20 degrees, the frequency of burst pipes becomes higher.

When pipes burst it's time to call SERVPRO of Bellingham 360-733-1800.