Cold Snap Causes Pipe Bursts Across Walton and Gwinnett Counties: How to Protect Your Home

     As temperatures plummet across our communities, residents are facing a familiar winter challenge: burst pipes. The recent arctic blast has led to numerous reports of flooding and water damage in homes and businesses throughout the region.

     The primary culprit behind burst pipes is the freeze-thaw cycle. As water freezes, it expands, putting immense pressure on pipe walls. When temperatures rise and the ice melts, the increased pressure can cause pipes to crack or burst, leading to costly water damage.

Pipes most at risk include:

• Those in unheated interior spaces like basements, attics, and garages
• Pipes running through exterior walls
• Outdoor hoses and spigots

To protect your home from burst pipes, experts recommend several strategies:

• Insulate exposed pipes, especially in unheated areas
• Add extra insulation to exterior walls housing plumbing

• Keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F, even when you're away
• Open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around pipes

• On extremely cold nights, allow faucets to drip slightly
• This relieves pressure and keeps water moving, reducing freeze risk

• Disconnect and drain garden hoses
• Close inside valves supplying outdoor hose bibs
• Open outside hose bibs to allow water to drain

If you suspect a frozen pipe:

1. Turn off the main water supply
2. Open the affected faucet
3. Apply gentle heat to the frozen section using a hair dryer or heating pad
4. Call a licensed plumber if you can't locate or thaw the pipe

For those seeking more permanent solutions, consider:

• Installing pipe sleeves or heat tape on vulnerable pipes
• Upgrading to frost-proof outdoor spigots
• Implementing a whole-house water shut-off system with leak detection

     As Metro Atlanta braces for continued cold weather, taking these precautions can save homeowners from the headache and expense of burst pipes. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in protecting your home from winter's wrath.