Homeowners are worried about pipes that could freeze, causing major damage. Frozen or burst pipes can cause expensive repairs and may require the services of a company that specializes in water damage restoration. This comprehensive guide will help you prevent your pipes from bursting and causing water damage.
Pipes Can Freeze – What To Know
To understand how pipes freeze, you must first know the cause. As the temperature drops, the water within pipes can freeze and expand. The pipes can crack or burst due to the pressure created by this expansion. The pipes that are located in non-heated areas, such as garages, basements, or attics, can be the most vulnerable.
Tips To Prevent Pipes From Freezing
- Insulate Pipes
Insulating your pipes can help to keep them warm and prevent freezing. Foam pipe insulation can be used, especially in pipes that are located in areas without heat. Also available are insulation sleeves or wraps, which can be easily applied to pipes of all sizes.
- Seal Cracks Or Holes
Seal any gaps in the flooring, walls, and ceilings that are close to pipes. The cold air that can enter through these holes increases the chance of freezing pipes. Fill the gaps using spray foam, caulk, and/or caulk.
- Keep Garage Doors Closed
If your garage has water supply pipes, close the doors as much as you can to maintain a comfortable temperature.
- Open Cabinet Door
Pipes that are located inside cabinets in the bathroom and kitchen are often placed against an exterior wall. Opening the cabinet doors allows warm air from the house to circulate and prevents pipes from freezing.
- Let Faucets Drip
Letting your taps drip can prevent pipes freezing in extreme cold. Even a small trickle keeps the water flowing. This reduces pressure, which can lead to a ruptured piping.
- Ensure A Consistent Temp
Keep your thermostat at the same temperature during a winter cold snap. You should not reduce the temperature to save energy at night. The risk of freezing pipes increases.
- Add Extra Insulation
Add more insulation to the attics, basements or crawl spaces if there are areas in your house that are inadequately insulated. This can help keep your home at a comfortable temperature and prevent pipes from bursting.
- Disconnect Garden Hoses
Drain and disconnect the garden hoses in advance of the arrival of cold weather. Then, open the outside faucets in order to drain the water. This prevents the water in your pipes from freezing.
What to do If Your Pipes Frozen
Do not wait to act if a pipe appears frozen.
- Turning on the Faucet
Turning the faucet will allow water to start flowing once the pipe thaws.
- Apply Heat
To melt the frozen part of the pipe, use an electric heating pad, portable space heaters, or hair dryers. A blowtorch is not recommended as it can cause the pipe to burst.
- Keep Heating Until Water Flow Returns To Normal
Continue the heating process until the water flows freely again. For assistance, if you cannot find the frozen part of the pipe unreachable, contact a licensed plumber.
- Check for Leaks
Inspect the pipe for leaks once it has thawed. An even small crack, if left unrepaired, can lead to significant damage.
When To Contact A Water Damage Restoration Company?
To minimize the impact of water damage or flooding caused by a ruptured pipe, you must act quickly. Here are some situations when you need to call in a water damage restoration company:
Significant Water Damage
If there’s significant water damage, like soaked walls, carpets, or floors, you can hire a professional to provide the expertise and equipment necessary to dry and restore your property.
- Mold Growth
When water damage goes untreated, mold can develop. A water damage repair company cannot just remove water but can also treat and stop mold growth.
- Comprehensive Cleanup
Water damage companies offer a comprehensive range of services that include water extraction, drying out, dehumidification, and sanitizing. The home is cleaned thoroughly and restored to pre-damage conditions.
Conclusion
In order to protect your house during the winter, you must prevent your pipes from freezing. Take proactive steps like insulating the pipes, sealing the cracks, or maintaining a consistent thermostat to reduce the chance of pipes freezing and prevent costly repairs. You should contact a professional water restoration company as soon as possible if there is any water damage. These precautions will ensure that your house remains dry and unharmed throughout the entire winter season.
