New to town? This time of your you may notice trucks in parking lots next to sprinkler systems blowing out mist high into the sky. With the cooler weather, we stop watering our lawn so much and if you’re from a warmer climate, you may think that’s the end of it! Well did you know that can lead to a massive flood INSIDE your home in the coming Spring? With winter on its way, there is no better time to learn how to protect your home from burst pipes than today. In this articleblog, we will discuss some the expert-advised winter water restoration tips. So, without any further ado, let’s begin!
What Are the Causes of Burst Pipes?
Burst pipes are one of the most common causes of water damage in winter. While we all know that water typically starts freezing at 0 degrees Celsius or 32 degrees Fahrenheit, do you know at what temperature does whater starts freezing inside your home? According to experts, the temperature only needs to drop below 20 degrees Fahrenheit for a few hours to put the pipes at risk of bursting. Listed below are some causes of burst pipes:
- Weak and Old Pipes
If you live in an ancestral home or your house located in the older area of the city, you might be dealing with some corroded, unprotected, and weakened pipes. The corrosion can result in thinning the inner walls of the pipes, making the prone to freezing and eventually bursting in the winters. In order to avoid this from happening, keep up with regular maintenance checks.
- Blocked or Clogged Pipes
Can you hear a banging sound in your pipes? If yes, there is a high chance that the pipelines of your home are clogged. Blockage of pipes can result in building extreme pressure which can lead to leaks or bursts. Prevent water damage by making sure that no foreign object finds a way down your sanitation system.
- Extreme Temperature
Extreme temperature is the primary cause of burst pipes. When water freezes it causes the pipes to expand to a point that they start developing cracks and ultimately break. Prevent this by keeping the pipelines in your home well-insulated throughout the winter season.
Winter Water Restoration: Tips to Prevent Burst Pipes
Prevention is always better than the solution. Here are some tips for minimizing the chances of dealing with water damage from burst pipes this winter:
- Direct Heat
Directing heat to the unheated areas of your house is the most critical step in ensuring protection against water damage. Do this by opening the cabinet doors of your bathroom and kitchen. This allows warm air to circulate around the pipes, keeping them warm.
- Do Not Turn Off the Faucets
When the temperature is extremely low, make sure to keep one or two faucets running (dripping). The consistent movement of water prevents pipes from freezing in winter.
- Use Heat Tape
If you are looking for an instant water restoration solution, heat tape has you covered. Apply heat tape to the pipelines of your home and keep them insulated throughout the chilly season.
- Keep the Garage Door Closed
Ensuring the garage doors are closed during winter is one of the most efficient ways of not only keeping intruders and critters away from your belongings but also keeping your home warmer. All while adding an extra layer of protection to prevent pipes from freezing.
Contact the Water Restoration Team of STOP Restoration of Spokane
Dealing with water damage is a job for the professionals. Even though fixing burst pipes might seem like an easy DIY task for you, it is advised to stand back and call STOP Restoration of Spokane professionals before your home floods. Visit our website to learn more about our winter water restoration services.
