Discover the signs of frozen pipe water damage and learn how to address cleanup and repairs quickly. Total Home Water Restoration serves Grove City and nearby Ohio communities.

How to Spot and Fix Water Damage from Frozen Pipes

September 10, 20252 min read

If you've ever had a pipe freeze and burst, you know how fast water can ruin drywall, flooring, and insulation. This isn’t just a winter inconvenience—it’s a full-blown emergency that can cause thousands in damage if not handled fast and right.

At Total Home Water Restoration, we help homeowners in Grove City and the surrounding areas tackle frozen pipe water damage every winter. Here’s how to recognize the signs and what to do next.


Signs You Have Water Damage from Frozen Pipes

A burst pipe doesn’t always show itself immediately. Here’s what to watch for:

  • Water stains on ceilings or walls — especially near exterior walls or under bathrooms and kitchens.

  • Bubbling or peeling paint — moisture behind paint or drywall causes visible changes.

  • Mold or musty smells — water trapped in wall cavities can turn into mold fast.

  • Swollen baseboards or flooring — water travels down and gets trapped.

  • Sudden drop in water pressure — if a pipe froze and cracked, you’ll likely see reduced flow.


First Steps After You Find Damage

  1. Shut off the water at the main valve to stop the flooding.

  2. Call a licensed restoration contractor right away — this is not a DIY moment.

  3. Take photos for insurance.

  4. Start removing standing water with towels or a shop vac if it’s safe to do so.


Why You Need Professional Help

Frozen pipe bursts often cause hidden water damage behind walls, under flooring, or in insulation. That trapped moisture becomes a breeding ground for mold.

We use moisture meters, thermal imaging, and IICRC-certified drying protocols (based on the S500 Standard for Professional Water Damage Restoration) to ensure everything is completely dry — not just what you can see.


What We Repair After a Burst Pipe

  • Cut out and replace water-damaged drywall

  • Replace insulation that got soaked

  • Dry or replace flooring and subfloor if water spread

  • Treat affected areas for mold prevention

  • Repaint and finish so it looks like nothing ever happened


How to Prevent It Next Time

  • Insulate pipes in crawlspaces and exterior walls

  • Keep cabinet doors open under sinks during deep freezes

  • Use heat tape or pipe sleeves on exposed pipes

  • Let faucets drip slightly when temps drop below 20°F


Serving Grove City and Surrounding Areas

We’ve helped homeowners across Grove City, Columbus, Hilliard, Westerville, Dublin, and beyond get back on their feet after frozen pipe damage. You can trust us to treat your home like it’s our own.

“From disaster to done right. We fix it like it’s our own home.” – Tyler Zimmerman, Owner


Need help now? Call Tyler at Total Home Water Restoration: 380-246-1837
Location: 4141 Hoover Rd, Grove City, OH 43123

Back to Blog