If you live in an area that is prone to very cold winters that are at freezing temperatures
consistently, then you probably know all the aggravation that can come
with having your water lines in your home freeze and burst.
This
is all too common in the dead of winter time when people do not prepare the way
that they should to avoid this situation. A little work ahead of time and a little
money well spent can save you everything from some slight aggravation to
a really big disaster.
It is always a good thing to have a check list
that you can use on a regular basis to keep your home safe guarded against sudden
water damage. This should include making sure anywhere inside or outside
your home that has water coming in or going out is kept in good repair. All pipes,
appliances, spigots, the roof, windows and doors. All of these things have
potential to allow water damage if things go wrong.
While
you
are sleeping, pipes can be freezing, which causes the water to
expand resulting sometimes in busted pipes. When the water thaws is usually when
you find out there is a busted pipe somewhere. Sometimes it can be inside,
sometimes outside.
Most commonly it will be in the crawl space under
the house, a basement, or spigot outside. They can also burst under sinks, toilets,
and tubs, and appliances. What a mess, especially if it takes time to get
the water turned off.
Being prepared for freezing weather is the
best solution to avoid this particular water damage. Copper and PVC pipes are prone
to burst when frozen while holding water. A crack as small as an eighth of
an inch can spew out up to 250 gallons of water in a day.
This can
be prevented by pipe insulation in the crawl space of your home and also the attic.
The more they are insulated the more they are protected. Thermostatically
controlled cables or heat tape can be used also. Follow manufacturer's directions
carefully with the cables. Sealing any place where cold air can seep in is
essential.
Caulking, weather stripping, and insulation are all helpful
things to use. Remember to disconnect garden hoses and turn off any water valves
possible that lead to pipes going into the house. Using these precautions
can prevent some really nasty water damage.
Jim Corkern is a writer and respected contributor to the Water damage restoration
and mold remediation Industry. Visit his sites for more information.
http://www.localrestoration.com
http://www.localrestorations.com |
