APEX, N.C. -- The temperatures and wintry weather our state has seen over the past week can cause more problems than those on the roadways.

This kind of cold weather can become a homeowner's worst nightmare with busted and leaking pipes, and it's keeping plumbing companies busy.

Plumbers say there are a few simple things that can be done to cut down on problems:

• Letting a little water drip from faucets
• Detaching outside hoses
• Regular maintenance

Calls for plumbing problems won't cost any more during a cold spell than any other time of the year.

However, an emergency call during off hours or on weekends will likely have an extra cost.