Best Frozen/Burst Pipe Repair Cost Estimates In The Twin Cities Metro

The first signs of a frozen pipe aren’t always obvious, but here’s what to watch for:

• No Water or Low Pressure – If you turn on a faucet and only get a trickle (or nothing at all), ice could be blocking the pipe.
• Frost on Exposed Pipes – Check under sinks, in basements, garages, and crawl spaces. If you see frost buildup, that pipe is likely frozen.
• Unusual Odors from Drains – A frozen pipe can trap sewer gases, causing foul smells from your sinks or tubs.
• Weird Noises – Banging, gurgling, or bubbling sounds from your pipes may indicate trapped air due to a blockage.

What to do: If you suspect a frozen pipe, turn off the water supply and call Bonfe immediately.

A burst pipe can cause major water damage, so acting fast is key. Follow these steps:

• Shut Off Your Water – Locate your home’s main water shut-off valve and turn it off immediately.
• Turn Off Electricity If Needed – If water is near electrical outlets or appliances, shut off power to prevent hazards.
• Drain the Faucets – Open all faucets to relieve pressure and minimize further damage.
• Contain the Water – Use towels, buckets, or a wet/dry vacuum to soak up standing water.
• Call Bonfe for Any Necessary Repairs – Our expert plumbers will locate the break, repair or replace the pipe, and get your plumbing back in working order.

Pipes can freeze in as little as 6 hours if temperatures drop below 20°F—especially if they’re in uninsulated areas like basements, attics, or exterior walls. Wind chill and prolonged cold snaps make the risk even higher.

How to prevent frozen pipes:

• Keep your heat set to at least 60°F (even if you’re away). If your pipes are closer to exterior walls, we recommend increasing this temperature to 65°F.
• Let faucets drip slightly to keep water moving.
• Open cabinet doors to let warm air circulate around pipes.
• Insulate exposed pipes with foam covers or heat tape.

Need help winter-proofing your home? Bonfe offers professional pipe insulation and winterization services!

Some frozen pipes can be safely thawed at home, but you have to be careful. Here’s what you can try:

• Turn Up the Heat – Raise your thermostat and open cabinet doors to warm up the pipes.
• Use a Hairdryer or Heating Pad – Apply gentle heat to the frozen area (never use an open flame).
• Wrap Pipes in Warm Towels – Soak towels in hot water and wrap them around the pipe.

When to call a plumber:

• If you can’t locate the frozen section
• If your pipes are cracked or leaking
• If thawing doesn’t restore water flow within an hour

Bonfe’s licensed plumbers use professional-grade tools to safely thaw pipes.

Many standard homeowners insurance policies cover burst pipes and resulting water damage as long as it wasn’t due to negligence. That means if you kept your heat on and took reasonable precautions, your insurance should help with repairs. Each provider is different, so be sure to look at your policy’s coverage.

What’s typically NOT covered?

• Damage caused by long-term neglect (e.g., pipes freezing because the heat was turned off).
• The cost to repair or replace the actual pipe (some policies only cover water damage, not plumbing repairs).

Need a professional assessment for your insurance claim? Bonfe can provide documentation and repairs to help you navigate the process.