TEXAS — The worst of the bitter cold has passed and it’s projected Texas will slowly begin warming up beginning Friday. By Sunday parts of Texas will see highs in the 60s.

However, if your pipes froze during the week-long deep freeze, they will likely begin thawing Friday, and you could be in for a nasty surprise.

If a pipe breaks and water is rushing out, the first thing you need to do is shut off the main water leading to your home. If you’re not sure where it’s located, you can generally find out by consulting the home inspection report you should have received prior to moving in. 

You then need to open any faucets connected to the broken pipe. Open them, but not all the way. Just enough to allow it to drain.

You’re going to need a mop and be ready to get to work but you’ll need to contact a professional plumber ASAP. If your home is damaged by water, you’ll need to contact a water remediation specialist.

Keep in mind that a pipe could break inside your walls or outside of your home and it won’t be immediately apparent. Check your walls and your ceiling for discoloration. Lower water pressure will also be a giveaway. A spike in your water bill might also indicate a leak.

If your pipes were subject to a hard freeze but didn’t burst, it’s still recommended you contact a plumber to inspect them and, if necessary, makes repairs to damaged pipes.

Document all of the damage to your home with photos and videos prior to repair. You’re going to want to contact your home insurance provider and this will help. Repairing broken pipes and water damage could cost you thousands of dollars, but your insurance could cover some of this and you could even qualify for help from FEMA in some instances.