For businesses in Tacoma, winter can bring unexpected challenges, including the risk of burst pipes due to sudden drops in temperature. Though Tacoma winters are generally mild, extreme cold fronts can cause rapid temperature drops, leaving commercial properties vulnerable to serious water damage. For businesses, preparing for these risks and knowing how to respond if a pipe burst can make a huge difference in reducing damage, minimizing downtime, and protecting both property and assets.
The Risk of Extreme Winter Temperature Drops
Tacoma’s climate is relatively mild, with winter temperatures averaging in the low 40s°F. However, the area occasionally experiences severe cold fronts that can drop temperatures by 30-40°F within hours. This sudden, extreme cold can cause unprotected pipes to freeze and burst. Since extreme cold snaps are rare in Tacoma, many commercial properties lack essential cold-weather infrastructure, such as insulated pipes or automated temperature monitoring. This lack of preparedness can make pipes in unheated or poorly insulated areas vulnerable to freezing, leading to potential flooding and extensive water damage. Pipes will burst when the water inside them freezes and expands. When ice settles inside of a pipe, the excessive pressure breaks it apart. The temperature at which pipes burst depends, insulation, exposure, and the amount of time it sits at a cold temperature without any warm water running through it. Typically, pipes are most vulnerable to bursting when temperatures drop to 20°F or lower
Immediate Steps to Take When a Pipe Bursts in Your Commercial Property
Acting quickly when a pipe burst can help reduce water damage, limit disruption, and minimize repair costs. Here are the critical steps to follow:
Step 1: Shut Off the Water Supply - The first step is to locate and shut off the main water valve to stop the flow of water. Knowing where your main water valve is located ahead of time is essential, especially in older buildings where valves might be less accessible. Shutting off the water immediately can prevent further flooding and reduce the risk of additional property damage.
Step 2: Assess the Extent of the Damage - Once the water is off, assess the damage to determine how widespread the flooding is. If the water is confined to a small area, you may be able to contain it temporarily. However, if the flooding is extensive or has spread to hard-to-reach areas, it’s crucial to call a professional water damage restoration company right away to prevent further damage.
Step 3: Contain the Water and Mitigate Immediate Damage - While waiting for professional help, take steps to contain the water using towels, buckets, or plastic sheeting to protect unaffected areas. Be cautious around standing water, especially near electrical equipment, and avoid using any electrical devices in water-damaged areas to prevent hazards. Temporarily containing the water can help mitigate immediate damage and buy time until a restoration team arrives.
Step 4: Call for Professional Help - A professional water damage restoration company can assess the damage thoroughly and handle extraction, drying, and repair. If water has affected critical systems like HVAC or electrical components, a professional team will have the equipment and expertise needed to address these issues safely and effectively. Contacting a restoration specialist quickly can minimize downtime and help protect your property from secondary issues like mold growth.
Steps Tacoma Business Owners Can Take to Prevent Pipe Bursts Before Winter
Preventing pipe bursts begins with proactive measures to keep pipes safe during the coldest months. Here are a few key tips to help protect your business:
- Insulate Pipes - Insulating exposed pipes, especially in unheated areas such as basements, attics, and exterior walls, can prevent them from freezing during sudden cold spells. Pipe insulation is a simple and effective solution that adds a layer of protection against Tacoma’s rare but severe winter temperatures.
- Keep the Heat On - Setting the thermostat to at least 55°F, even when the business is closed, can prevent pipes from freezing. Consistent indoor temperatures protect pipes and ensure that even the building’s colder areas remain warm enough to prevent freezing.
- Open Cabinet Doors - Opening cabinet doors, particularly under sinks along exterior walls, allows warm air to circulate around the pipes, reducing the risk of freezing. This is especially important in bathrooms and kitchens, where pipes may be more vulnerable to the cold.
- Seal Drafts and Air Leaks - Drafts around windows, doors, and walls can lower temperatures around pipes, increasing the risk of freezing. By sealing gaps and cracks, you can keep warm air in and cold air out, creating a more stable environment to protect vulnerable pipes.
- Let Faucets Drip During Extreme Cold - Letting faucets drip during particularly cold weather can prevent pipes from freezing by maintaining a slight, steady flow of water. This technique relieves pressure in the pipes, making it less likely for them to freeze and burst when temperatures drop.
- Inspect Pipes and Plumbing Regularly - Routine inspections, particularly before winter, can help identify issues such as leaks or weak spots that may lead to a burst pipe in colder conditions. Catching potential vulnerabilities early can make it easier to address them before temperatures drop, reducing the chance of winter water damage.
Why ServiceMaster of Tacoma is Your Trusted Partner for Commercial Water Damage Restoration
When it comes to managing water damage from a burst pipe, having a trusted restoration partner can make all the difference. ServiceMaster of Tacoma is well-equipped to handle large-scale commercial water damage with specialized equipment and experienced technicians.
- Expert Water Damage Restoration. ServiceMaster of Tacoma offers comprehensive water damage restoration services, including water extraction, structural drying, and moisture detection. With industrial-grade pumps, drying systems, and moisture meters, they can quickly assess and address water damage to minimize further issues. The company’s expertise ensures that all areas affected by water are thoroughly dried and restored to prevent future damage.
- 24/7 Emergency Services. Unexpected cold snaps can happen anytime, and water damage from burst pipes often requires immediate attention. ServiceMaster of Tacoma offers 24/7 emergency services, so business owners have peace of mind knowing they can get help as soon as an issue arises, no matter the time.
- Comprehensive Solutions. In addition to water extraction, ServiceMaster of Tacoma provides full restoration services, including structural drying, mold prevention, and necessary repairs. By handling every step of the process, they ensure that the affected area is restored to its original condition, so you can get back to business without worrying about lingering issues.
Be Prepared for Winter Weather in Tacoma
In Tacoma, winter can bring sudden and severe temperature drops, which can lead to pipe bursts and unexpected water damage. Being prepared, both by taking preventive measures and knowing the steps to take if a pipe bursts, can protect your business from costly damage and help keep operations running smoothly. If you experience a pipe burst or water damage in your commercial property, don’t wait—contact ServiceMaster of Tacoma for fast and reliable water damage restoration services. Available 24/7, ServiceMaster of Tacoma’s expert team is ready to help you recover from unexpected water damage and protect your business from further issues.
