Winter Weather Results in Burst Pipes, Water Damage, Mold and Asbestos Exposure Concerns

This winter has already brought record setting cold temperatures to many parts of the United States and Canada. During these extreme cold snaps, especially in parts of the country that do not regularly experience freezing temperatures, homes and buildings can suffer water damage due to pipes freezing and bursting. 

When water in a pipe freezes, it expands and creates tremendous pressure. If the pipe breaks, many supply lines can easily release hundreds of gallons or more of water into a structure in a short period of time. This water gradually make its way to the lowest area it can reach, meaning a burst pipe on a second or third floor can cause water damage to that floor and the floors below. Even sewage pipes under some conditions can freeze and burst allowing potentially infectious waste to enter a building. 

“When pipes burst, it’s not just water damage that becomes a concern,” said Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President of Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “For example, an elementary school in Massachusetts recently had a pipe burst and the school had to be temporarily closed. This wasn’t due to the water alone; it turns out damaged ceilings tiles contained asbestos which made for potentially hazardous conditions according to media reports. Another elementary school in Massachusetts also had to temporarily relocate students to another building after cleanup activities for a burst pipe lead to the discovery of mold contamination issues.” 

Property owners, managers and tenants that do suffer water damage due to burst pipes can rely on EMSL Analytical, Inc. for sampling supplies, test kits and a comprehensive range of air, water, surface and bulk testing services for mold, bacteria, chemicals, lead, asbestos and other contaminants associated with water damage. EMSL has even sponsored a video with information and tips for preventing water damage and mold from frozen pipes that can be seen at: https://youtu.be/cK9x_UexwrE.

To learn more about mold, asbestos or other indoor air quality (IAQ) and environmental testing services, please visit www.EMSL.com, call (800) 220-3675 or email  info@EMSL.com . To view the complete line of indoor environmental test kits, visit www.EMSLTestKits.com.

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical, Inc. is one of the leading testing laboratories with 43 locations throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for mold, bacteria, Legionella, USP 797, pathogens, asbestos, lead, soot, char & ash from fires, VOC’s, odors, radon, formaldehyde, indoor air quality, microbiology, environmental, industrial hygiene, radiological, food, beverage & consumer products and material testing services for the identification of unknown substances. EMSL services both professionals and the general public. EMSL maintains an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies including, but not limited to A2LA, AIHA LAP, LLC. (AIHA EMLAP, AIHA IHLAP, AIHA ELLAP), NVLAP, CDC ELITE, CPSC, CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX DOH, NJDEP and multiple other state accrediting agencies. Please visit our website at www.EMSL.com for a complete listing of accreditations.  In addition, EMSL carries a wide range of Sampling Equipment and Investigative Products for environmental professionals.

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

EMSL Analytical, Inc.

(1) 856-303-2503

Contact via E-mail