A cold streak is running across the U.S., bringing freezing temperatures across southern states, single-digit and below-zero temperatures in the Midwest, and the possibility of frozen and ruptured pipes.

As water in pipes freezes, as much as 2,000 pounds of pressure is produced, seriously testing the tensile strength of water lines. With a burst pipe's ability to release hundreds of gallons of water per hour, damages can amount to thousands of dollars.

Signs that you might be dealing with frozen water lines include odd sounds, such as bubbling when you flush the toilet; odors; damp drywall; persistent plumbing issues; and visible dampness or even ice on pipes.

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Steve Hallo

Steve Hallo is managing editor of PropertyCasualty360.com. He can be reached at [email protected]

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