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When winter rolls around in Ontario, CA, the picturesque snowfall and crisp air can be a beautiful sight, but they can also bring the threat of frozen pipes and costly water damage. At DESA Contracting, we’ve seen firsthand how quickly a burst pipe can turn into a flooded basement, destroyed drywall, and an expensive restoration job. The good news? With the right precautions and a bit of planning, most frozen pipe scenarios are completely preventable.
We’ve put together this guide to help Ontario homeowners and business owners stay protected this winter. Whether you’re prepping your home for the season or managing a commercial property, our goal is to help you avoid unnecessary damage and stress.
Ontario winters can be unpredictable. Some years, it’s a gradual cool-down; others, we’re hit with sudden deep freezes that last for days. When temperatures dip below freezing, the water inside your pipes can freeze, expand, and cause the pipe to burst. Once the ice thaws, the water will rapidly spread and can get into all the wrong places.
At DESA Contracting, we’ve responded to countless emergency calls for frozen pipe-related water damage in homes, offices, warehouses, and apartment buildings. The damage can be extensive and include things like flooded floors, ruined insulation, soaked electrical systems, and mold growth if not addressed quickly.
Before a frozen pipe bursts, there are often a few warning signs. Here’s what to look for:
If you notice any of these signs, take action immediately. Turn off your water supply and call a professional. Early intervention is your best chance at avoiding a full-blown water related disaster.
Certain parts of your home or business are more vulnerable to frozen pipes, especially in Ontario’s climate:
Even pipes in newer homes can freeze if they’re improperly insulated or exposed to drafts.
At DESA Contracting, prevention is always our first recommendation. Here are proven steps you can take to minimize the risk:
1. Insulate Pipes in Vulnerable Areas
Wrap pipes in unheated spaces (like basements, garages, and crawlspaces) with foam pipe insulation. For extra protection, consider heat tape or heat cables that activate when temps drop.
2. Seal Up Drafts
Cold air can sneak in through cracks and gaps near pipes. Seal any openings around windows, doors, and the foundation with caulking or weatherstripping.
3. Keep the Heat On
Even if you’re going away, keep your home or building heated to at least 13°C (55°F). It’s better to pay a bit more on your heating bill than risk a flooded home.
4. Open Interior Cabinet Doors
In kitchens and bathrooms, leave cabinet doors open to let warm air circulate around plumbing.
5. Let Faucets Drip
Allowing a slight trickle of water can keep water moving, which helps prevent freezing, especially during overnight deep freezes.
6. Drain Outdoor Water Lines
Disconnect and drain garden hoses, and shut off water to exterior taps. If your home has a separate line for sprinkler systems, drain that too.
7. Install a Smart Thermostat
Modern thermostats can monitor interior temps and notify you if temperatures drop too low while you’re away.
At DESA Contracting, prevention is always our first recommendation. Here are proven steps you can take to minimize the risk:
1. Insulate Pipes in Vulnerable Areas
Wrap pipes in unheated spaces (like basements, garages, and crawlspaces) with foam pipe insulation. For extra protection, consider heat tape or heat cables that activate when temps drop.
2. Seal Up Drafts
Cold air can sneak in through cracks and gaps near pipes. Seal any openings around windows, doors, and the foundation with caulking or weatherstripping.
3. Keep the Heat On
Even if you’re going away, keep your home or building heated to at least 13°C (55°F). It’s better to pay a bit more on your heating bill than risk a flooded home.
4. Open Interior Cabinet Doors
In kitchens and bathrooms, leave cabinet doors open to let warm air circulate around plumbing.
5. Let Faucets Drip
Allowing a slight trickle of water can keep water moving, which helps prevent freezing, especially during overnight deep freezes.
6. Drain Outdoor Water Lines
Disconnect and drain garden hoses, and shut off water to exterior taps. If your home has a separate line for sprinkler systems, drain that too.
7. Install a Smart Thermostat
Modern thermostats can monitor interior temps and notify you if temperatures drop too low while you’re away.
Even with the best planning, it’s possible a pipe may still freeze, especially in older buildings or during record-breaking cold snaps. If that happens, don’t panic.
As a trusted restoration company in Ontario, we specialize in handling frozen pipe emergencies quickly and effectively. When disaster strikes, our trained team will:
We also offer preventive maintenance services and seasonal inspections to help homeowners avoid future issues. Whether you’re dealing with frozen pipes right now or just want to get ahead of the problem, we’re here to help.
With our years of experience in Ontario’s harsh winter conditions, we understand exactly what it takes to protect homes and commercial properties from water damage caused by frozen pipes. Our commitment to quality, reliability, and honest work is what sets us apart.
We’re proud to be part of this community, and we treat every job like it’s our own home, because we care about our neighbors and community. From emergency restoration to helping you prepare your property before winter hits, DESA Contracting is your go-to resource.
Winter in Ontario can be tough, but dealing with frozen pipe water damage doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re preparing for the season, suspect a frozen pipe, or need emergency restoration services, our team at DESA Contracting is here to help 24/7.
Let’s keep your home dry, safe, and worry-free this winter. Call us today to schedule your service.
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