Frozen & Burst Pipes
Frozen and burst pipes are a reality of mountain living — and when they happen, fast and careful response is critical. We provide emergency repair, safe thawing, and long-term freeze prevention for homes across Truckee and North Lake Tahoe.
In Truckee and North Lake Tahoe, freezing temperatures aren’t occasional — they’re a defining feature of winter. Pipes in crawl spaces, exterior walls, and unheated areas are at constant risk, and a single burst can cause devastating water damage to floors, walls, and personal property.
We help homeowners and property managers respond to pipe emergencies quickly and effectively, and we provide the preventive measures that reduce the risk of it happening in the first place.
Emergency Burst Pipe Repair
When a pipe bursts, minutes matter. We prioritize emergency calls and can often respond same-day. While we’re en route, we’ll walk you through shutting off the water supply to limit damage. Once on site, we contain the leak, assess the damage, and make lasting repairs.
Safe Pipe Thawing
If you suspect a frozen pipe — no water flow, unusual sounds, or visible frost on exposed pipes — don’t attempt to thaw it with open flame or excessive heat. Improper thawing can cause the pipe to burst. We use controlled, professional methods to restore flow safely.
Winterization Services
Leaving your mountain home for the winter? Proper winterization protects your plumbing from freeze damage while you’re away. Our service includes draining water lines and fixtures, adding antifreeze to traps, shutting down the water heater, and documenting the process for your records or property manager.
In spring, we return to de-winterize — restoring water service, testing all fixtures, and checking for any issues that developed over the winter.
Freeze Prevention
The best approach to frozen pipes is preventing them in the first place. We assess vulnerable areas of your home and recommend solutions including pipe insulation, heat trace cable, improved ventilation in crawl spaces, and smart water monitoring systems that alert you to freeze conditions before damage occurs.
Common issues we resolve
Burst Pipes from Freezing
When water freezes inside a pipe, the expansion can crack or split the line — releasing water into walls, ceilings, and floors the moment it thaws. Fast shutoff and repair limits the damage.
Frozen Pipes That Haven't Burst Yet
If you turn on a faucet and nothing comes out during cold weather, the line may be frozen. Safe, controlled thawing prevents the pipe from bursting during the process.
Water Damage After a Burst
Even after the pipe is repaired, water damage to finishes, insulation, and structure needs assessment. We coordinate with restoration professionals when needed.
Inadequate Insulation
Pipes in exterior walls, crawl spaces, and unheated areas are most vulnerable. Proper insulation and heat trace solutions prevent future freeze events.
Seasonal Home Winterization
Homes left vacant during winter need proper winterization — draining systems, protecting fixtures, and setting up monitoring to prevent freeze damage.
Our process
Respond
For emergencies, we prioritize fast response. We'll guide you through shutting off water while we're en route.
Contain
We stop active leaks, assess the extent of damage, and stabilize the situation.
Repair
Damaged sections are repaired or replaced with proper materials and techniques for lasting results.
Prevent
We recommend and install insulation, heat trace, or smart shutoff systems to reduce future risk.
Why Brimer
Clean work. We protect floors, cabinetry, and finishes while we work — and leave the area spotless when we're done.
Clear communication. You'll understand the issue, your options, and the cost before any work begins.
Mountain-home experience. We understand altitude, seasonal use, hard water, and the unique demands of Tahoe/Truckee homes.
Serving since 1997. Nearly three decades of trusted plumbing service in Truckee and North Lake Tahoe.
Frequently asked questions
Shut off the main water supply immediately — the shutoff valve is typically near where the main line enters the home. Then call us at 530-587-0733. If you can safely do so, move valuables away from the affected area.
Yes. Our winterization service includes draining water lines, protecting fixtures, and setting up your home to withstand freezing temperatures while unoccupied. We also offer spring de-winterization to get everything running again.
Key prevention measures include proper pipe insulation, heat trace cable on vulnerable lines, maintaining minimum heat in the home, and installing a smart water monitor that alerts you to freeze risk. We can assess your home and recommend the right combination.
Yes. Burst pipes are one of our highest-priority calls. Contact us at 530-587-0733 for the fastest response.
Need frozen & burst pipes service?
Tell us what's happening and we'll get back to you with clear next steps.
Request received
We'll review your request and get back to you as soon as possible. If this is an emergency, please call 530-587-0733 for the fastest response.