When a cold wave hits, water-pipe damage is never too far behind. In freezing weather, it is not the pipe that freezes but the water inside the pipe, That ice will also expand within the pipe. This conversion into ice and subsequent expansion can cause pipe joints to break, or for the pipe wall to be damaged. If unchecked, the resulting leaks can damage carpeting, floors, fiberglass insulation, and drywall. The major sources of such leaks are found to be in copper pipes which supply water toplumbing fixtures, or to baseboard radiators. Here are the most common causes of bursting pipes in cold weather:

Burst Pipe

When water freezes, it expands by 10 percent  in volume. This creates significant pressure on the walls of the pipe, ultimately causing it to burst apart.

Here are some of the most common causes of leaking, burst, or frozen pipes:

• Damaged pipes, often due to insufficient insulation;
• Damaged insulation;
• A heating system that doesn’t function properly when the residents of the house are away;
• Corrosion at a joint which has undergone repair; and
• Any damage that a pipe sustains during.

What to do when your frozen pipes burst

The most common problem that people are faced with is to determine the next step after the frozen pipe has burst. It is easy to identify a pipe that has frozen from the unique sound that it makes. These sounds can best be described as “clangs” or “bangs”. These sounds occur when the water inside the pipe suddenly freezes and expands. The sounds may be followed by the sound of leaking water. Ice will obstruct the flow for only so long, after that, water will leak. When this happens, the area around the pipes becomes susceptible to water damage, as well as mold. If you find yourself in such a situation, turn off the main water valve immediately. The main valve is normally located in either the basement or in the utility room. If you are able to take quick action, you may be able to minimize the damage from a burst pipe.

If appropriate measures are not taken immediately, the water may cause considerable damage to the house and its contents. Therefore it is important to take the necessary actions at the right moment and acquire the services of professionals to get the problem fixed for good.