Did the cold weather leave your home with plumbing-related damage? If an uninsulated pipe bursts, take a look at what you need to know about flood damage restoration and the reasons to call a professional contractor as soon as possible. 

What Happens When A Pipe Bursts?

As the temperature dips your uninsulated or exposed pipes are at risk for cold-related damage. Without heat or proper insulation to protect the pipes, the water inside of your plumbing system could freeze. As the water molecules freeze and expand, they put pressure on the pipes. If this pressure gets too high, the pipe could burst. 

The result is more than just damage to the plumbing system. The liquid water inside of the pipes won't stay put. Instead, it will rush out of the pipe and flood your home. While the crack or tear in the pipe will relieve the pressure, it won't stop the water damage. Failure to turn off the water will result in a continued flood. The more water that leaves the pipe, the worse the damage it can create in the surrounding area.

Can You Clean Up Flood Damage Yourself?

The answer to this question depends on the extent of the damage and the source of the flood. A small drip or barely-there stream of water that creates a tiny puddle on your unfinished basement floor won't need professional help. But significant flooding or flooding that affects the finished interior parts of your home will require an emergency water damage restoration contractor. 

Why Should You Call A Water Damage Restoration Company?

More specifically, why isn't this type of cleanup a DIY job? Unlike a sewage backup that floods from some outdoor water sources, most burst pipes contain clean water. This may mean that you won't immediately need to worry about bacteria or other microorganisms. But it doesn't mean the flood water will remain clean forever or that you should allow it to stand.

The water from a burst pipe can damage your flooring, furniture, appliances, or anything else that is near ground level. It can also support mold growth. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), it can take as little as 24 hours for mold to grow on wet surfaces. These include your furniture, carpeting, wood, and drywall. 

Failure to adequately remove the water or address mold could leave your home with permanent damage, strange streaks, and odd odors. It can also pose a health risk—especially for household members who have a mold allergy or a respiratory condition. 

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