Burst and Frozen Pipe Water Damage in Prince George
A pipe burst and water is spreading? Shut off the main water valve, then call us. PG Restorations removes the water, dries your walls and floors, and repairs the damage. We answer 24/7.
- Open 24/7, 365 days
- Locally owned in Prince George
- We work with your insurer
Who fixes water damage from a burst pipe in Prince George?
A plumber repairs the broken pipe. PG Restorations repairs the water damage it leaves behind. We remove the water, take out soaked drywall, flooring and insulation, dry the structure with commercial equipment and rebuild. Call (778) 281-2407 any time, day or night.
Frozen pipes are one of the most common winter calls in Prince George. When the temperature drops well below freezing, pipes in outside walls, crawlspaces, garages and unheated basements can freeze and split.
The leak often shows up only when the pipe thaws, so water can run inside a wall or ceiling for hours before anyone sees it. The faster the water is removed and the area is dried, the less has to be torn out and the lower the risk of mould. See our full water damage restoration service.
What to Do When a Pipe Bursts
Shut off the water
Turn off the main valve. In most homes it is where the water line comes in, often in the basement.
Stay safe
Switch off breakers for wet areas only if you can reach the panel without standing in water.
Call a plumber
To repair or replace the broken pipe.
Call us
We remove the water and start drying the same day.
Take photos
Photos of the damage help with your insurance claim.
Where Pipes Freeze in Prince George Homes
Sinks on outside walls
Pipes under kitchen and bathroom sinks on outside walls freeze first. On very cold nights, open the cabinet doors so warm air can reach them.
Crawlspaces and unheated basements
Pipes in cold spaces need insulation or heat cable. A drafty crawlspace vent can freeze a line overnight.
Outdoor taps and garages
Shut off and drain outdoor taps before winter, and disconnect hoses so water cannot freeze back into the line.
Burst and Frozen Pipe FAQ
Should I shut off the water if pipes are frozen?
Yes. Shutting off the main valve is a smart first step. If the pipe has already split, the water stays off when it thaws instead of flooding the room. Then open the tap on that line and warm the pipe slowly with a hair dryer or space heater, never an open flame.
What causes a frozen pipe to burst?
Water expands when it freezes. The ice builds pressure inside the pipe between the frozen spot and the closed tap, and that pressure splits the pipe or a fitting. This is why the leak often shows up only when the pipe thaws and water starts flowing again.
How long can pipes stay frozen before bursting?
There is no safe amount of time. A pipe can split within a few hours in deep cold, or stay frozen for days without breaking. Treat any frozen pipe as urgent: shut off the water, thaw it slowly and watch for leaks as it warms.
Will frozen pipes defrost on their own?
They usually do once the temperature rises, but waiting is risky. If the pipe has cracked, water comes out as soon as it thaws, often inside a wall or ceiling where you cannot see it. It is safer to shut off the water and thaw the pipe slowly while you watch it.
Does home insurance cover a burst pipe in BC?
Most home policies cover sudden water damage from a burst pipe. Coverage can be limited if the home was left unheated or empty, or if the leak went on for a long time. Check your policy and call your insurer early. We document the damage and work with your adjuster.
How much does it cost to repair water damage from a burst pipe?
It depends on how long the water ran, how many rooms it reached, and whether drywall, flooring and insulation can be dried or must be replaced. Fast water removal usually means a smaller repair. We give you a written estimate after we see the damage. See what affects the cost.
Other Restoration Services in Prince George
Burst pipe right now?
Shut off the main water valve and call PG Restorations 24/7. A crew with pumps and drying equipment can be on the way.