Dealing with Frozen Pipes: What Homeowners in East Meadow and Westbury Need to Know

2/20/2025 (Permalink)

Winter in East Meadow and Westbury can be brutal, with freezing temperatures posing a serious risk to your home’s plumbing system. Frozen pipes are a common problem during the cold season, and if left unaddressed, they can lead to costly water damage. At SERVPRO of East Meadow/Westbury, we’re here to help you understand how to deal with frozen pipes and prevent them from becoming a major issue.

Why Do Pipes Freeze and Burst?

Frozen pipes occur when water inside the pipes turns to ice due to low temperatures. As the water freezes, it expands, creating significant pressure inside the pipe walls. This pressure can cause cracks or bursts, resulting in water leaks that can damage your home’s walls, floors, and valuable belongings.

Common areas where pipes are most at risk of freezing include:

• Pipes located in unheated basements, attics, or crawl spaces
• Outdoor hose bibs and sprinkler systems
• Pipes along exterior walls without sufficient insulation

If you experience low water pressure, strange gurgling noises, or visible frost on your pipes, you could be at risk of a frozen pipe burst.

Steps to Take When You Have Frozen Pipes

If you suspect frozen pipes in your East Meadow or Westbury home, acting quickly is critical to minimize water damage.

1. Turn Off the Main Water Supply

This prevents additional water from entering the frozen section and causing further damage.

2. Open Faucets

Opening the faucets helps relieve pressure and encourages melting by allowing water to flow once thawed.

3. Thaw Pipes Safely

Use a hair dryer, heating pad, or space heater to warm the pipe gradually. Never use open flames, such as a blowtorch, as they can cause fires or further damage.

4. Check for Leaks

Once the pipe thaws, inspect it for any signs of cracks or leaks. If you discover any, turn off the water immediately and call for professional assistance.

The Importance of Immediate Water Damage Restoration

A frozen pipe burst can release gallons of water in a short period, leading to significant damage. Walls, floors, furniture, and electrical systems are all at risk. If water damage is not addressed promptly, mold growth can begin within 24 to 48 hours.

At SERVPRO of East Meadow/Westbury, we offer 24/7 emergency water damage restoration services to quickly mitigate damage and restore your home. Our comprehensive process includes:

• Immediate Inspection and Damage Assessment: We evaluate the extent of water damage and create a tailored restoration plan.
• Water Removal and Extraction: Using powerful pumps and vacuums, we eliminate standing water quickly.
• Drying and Dehumidification: We deploy industrial-grade drying equipment to prevent further damage.
• Cleaning and Sanitizing: We clean affected areas to remove any bacteria or contaminants.
• Restoration and Repairs: Whether it’s minor repairs or major reconstruction, we’ll restore your home to its pre-damage condition.

Preventing Frozen Pipes in East Meadow and Westbury

Taking preventative measures can save you the stress and expense of dealing with burst pipes. Here are some tips:

• Insulate Exposed Pipes: Install pipe insulation or heat tape in unheated areas such as attics, basements, and crawl spaces.
• Seal Cracks and Drafts: Close gaps around windows, doors, and walls to prevent cold air from affecting your pipes.
• Keep Your Home Warm: Maintain a consistent indoor temperature, even when you’re away.
• Let Faucets Drip: Allowing a small trickle of water to flow can prevent freezing by relieving pressure in the pipes.
• Disconnect Outdoor Hoses: Drain and store garden hoses, and shut off outdoor water valves to avoid backflow issues.

Trust SERVPRO of East Meadow/Westbury for Water Damage Restoration

Frozen pipes can strike without warning, but you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. SERVPRO of East Meadow/Westbury is your trusted partner in water damage restoration. Our team is IICRC-certified and equipped with the latest tools to address any size disaster, ensuring your home is safe and secure.

We also work directly with your insurance company to streamline the claims process and reduce your stress during recovery.

Act Fast to Minimize Water Damage in Your Home

If you’re dealing with frozen pipes or water damage, contact SERVPRO of East Meadow/Westbury immediately. Our experts are available around the clock to provide fast, reliable water damage restoration services that protect your home and give you peace of mind this winter.