Winter Water Damage Risks in Michigan: Burst Pipes and Ice Dams Explained

Winter in Southeast Michigan is beautiful, but it also brings serious risks for homeowners. Two common causes of winter water damage are burst pipes and ice dams—both of which can lead to costly repairs if not addressed quickly. Understanding these risks and knowing how to prevent them can save you a lot of headaches and money.

In this blog, we’ll break down what causes burst pipes and ice dams, how to prevent them, and what to do if you experience winter water damage.

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Burst Pipes: What You Need to Know

When temperatures in Michigan drop below freezing, your home’s plumbing system is vulnerable to bursting pipes. Water expands as it freezes, and that pressure can cause pipes to crack or burst. The result? Flooding, water damage, and expensive repairs.

Common Causes of Burst Pipes

1. Poor Insulation – Pipes that aren’t properly insulated are more likely to freeze. This is especially common in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, and garages.
2. Sudden Temperature Drops – Rapid temperature changes can catch homeowners off guard, leading to frozen pipes overnight.
3. Exterior Pipe Exposure – Outdoor spigots, sprinkler systems, and other exterior plumbing are highly susceptible to freezing.

How to Prevent Burst Pipes

• Insulate Exposed Pipes – Use foam insulation or heat tape on pipes in unheated areas.
• Keep Your Home Warm – Maintain a consistent indoor temperature, even when you’re away. Set your thermostat no lower than 55°F.
• Let Faucets Drip – During extreme cold, let your faucets drip slightly to prevent pressure buildup inside the pipes.

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Ice Dams: A Hidden Threat to Your Roof

Ice dams are another major winter water damage risk in Michigan. They form when snow on your roof melts and refreezes at the edge, creating a dam that traps water. The water backs up under the shingles, causing roof leaks and water damage inside your home.

Signs of Ice Dams

• Icicles hanging from your roof’s edge
• Water stains on ceilings or walls
• Peeling paint near the roofline

What Causes Ice Dams?

Ice dams are primarily caused by poor attic insulation and ventilation. When warm air from your home rises into the attic, it heats the roof’s surface and causes snow to melt. The water flows down to the colder edge of the roof and refreezes, forming a dam.

How to Prevent Ice Dams

• Improve Attic Insulation – Keep your attic properly insulated to reduce heat transfer.
• Ensure Proper Ventilation – Ventilation keeps your attic cool and prevents uneven roof temperatures.
• Clear Your Roof Regularly – After heavy snowfall, use a roof rake to remove snow from the edges of your roof.

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What to Do If You Experience Winter Water Damage

If you suspect water damage from a burst pipe or ice dam, it’s crucial to act quickly to minimize the damage.

Steps to Take

1. Turn Off the Water Supply – If you have a burst pipe, shut off your home’s water supply immediately.
2. Remove Standing Water – Use a wet/dry vacuum or towels to remove as much water as possible.
3. Call a Professional Restoration Company – Water damage can lead to mold growth and structural issues if not handled properly. Contact a water damage restoration expert like Anytime Restoration for help.
4. Document the Damage – Take photos and keep records for insurance purposes.

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Why Choose Anytime Restoration?

At Anytime Restoration, we specialize in helping Southeast Michigan homeowners recover from water damage quickly and efficiently. Our team is available 24/7 to respond to emergencies, and we use advanced equipment to thoroughly dry and restore your home. Whether it’s a burst pipe or damage caused by an ice dam, we’re here to help.

Our Services Include:

• Water extraction and drying
• Mold remediation
• Structural repairs
• Insurance claim assistance

Don’t let winter water damage ruin your home. If you’re dealing with a water emergency, contact Anytime Restoration today for fast, reliable service.

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Contact Us Today

Protect your home from the risks of burst pipes and ice dams this winter. For expert water damage restoration services in Southeast Michigan, call Anytime Restoration at 1-855-350-0333.