What Causes Pipes to Burst? And How to Prevent It!

12/8/2021 (Permalink)

If you have frozen or burst pipes, we can help!

Although cold weather may seem less threatening than a rainstorm or a hurricane, it can cause water damage, as well. It’s important to understand the threat of water damage from freezing weather so you can recognize the signs and try to prevent or mitigate as quickly as possible!

Frozen or Burst Pipes

External faucets and plumbing in unheated areas within your house, such as in your garage, crawlspace, attic, basement, or kitchen cabinets are at the highest risk. Pipes exposed to severe cold such a hose bibs, swimming pool supply lines, and water sprinkler lines are at high risk, as well. You also have to watch out for pipes that run against exterior walls that have little or no insulation.

Prevention

You can prevent frozen pipes by applying heat tape or insulation. You can also keep faucets at a slight trickle to avoid pressure build-up, and fully turn off your water if you leave town and won’t be using it for an extended amount of days. Be sure to drain water from swimming pool and water sprinkler supply lines following manufacture directions. Remove, drain, and store hoses inside for the winter. Close inside valves supplying outdoor hose bibs. Open hose bibs to allow water to drain and then keep the outside valve open so that any water remaining is able to expand without causing the pipe to break. You can also open kitchen and bathroom cabinets to allow warmer air to circulate around the pipes. Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and night, and if you go away during cold weather - it may incur a higher heating bill, but will prevent a much more expensive repair due to frozen or burst pipes!

If you do experience any water damage this winter, give Danielle a call at 610-506-8919 so that SERVPRO of Southern Delaware County & West Chester can help!