Winter weather is approaching. You should prioritise water pipe repair in areas where temperatures drop below freezing.
Water pipes in your home might freeze when temperatures fall below freezing. Frozen water will restrict water flow and eventually lead to a water pipe burst. Of course, this can cause extensive damage to your home.
Although water freezes at 32 degrees Fahrenheit, the temperature inside your home provides some insulation for your pipes. In most cases, frozen pipes will only occur once the weather drops to roughly 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
However, if you have a busted water pipe, all hope is not lost. Picking up your tool belt and performing basic water pipe maintenance will take a long way. The good news is that you can avoid freezing your pipes inside and outside your home this winter.
Examines the causes of water pipe breaks and offers straightforward advice for properly working your home’s pipes.
What Causes Water Pipes to Burst?
Pipes That Are Old and Weak
Pipes in an older home are likely to be damaged due to a lack of maintenance, insulation, or corrosion. Corrosion causes pipelines to get thinner and thinner over time until they burst at their weakest point. Maintain frequent maintenance inspections to prevent this from occurring.
When Under Pressure
Water pipelines face tremendous pressure daily, causing them to leak or burst. Have you heard a hammering noise? It’s an indication of excessive water pressure. Consider using pressure-reducing valves to counteract the high pressure and prevent future harm.
Pipes that are clogged or blocked
Keeping your pipes clear of debris is critical to prevent pressure buildup and potential damage. Pressure buildup might then cause your pipes to break or even burst. To avoid this problem, ensure that no foreign objects enter your drains.
Roots of a Tree
One of the most prevalent causes of water pipe bursts is tree roots. These looping, developing roots can wrap around water lines or even make their way inside the pipes without your notice. As a result, water flow may be reduced, or pipes may become blocked.
Temperatures at Extremes
Pipes can rupture at their weakest point if water freezes inside them, which is likely to happen during winter. To avoid this, ensure your pipes are well-insulated throughout the winter months.
Poor Plumbing Work
Water pipe issues can arise if the plumber who installed your pipes did a poor job or used incorrect parts. To avoid future plumbing issues, always choose a trustworthy and certified plumber.
Household Maintenance Tips to Avoid a Burst Water Pipe
The heat created in the house during the winter keeps most homes’ water pipes from freezing. However, your pipes should be covered with insulation tape or pipe covers when not used, such as in the attic, garage, crawl space, or possibly even the basement. Examine the situation; if this is not the case, it is time to call a plumber. These are some suggestions for avoiding a burst water pipe in your home.
Keep Your Faucets Turned On
Keep one or two of your faucets flowing slowly when the temperatures are really low. Water movement should help keep your pipes from freezing.
Make Use of Your Heat
Direct warm air to the cooler, unheated portions of your home. Open the cabinet doors in your kitchen and bathroom to allow warm air to travel around the pipes, especially if your sinks are against an outside wall.
Make use of Heat Tape.
Heat tape is a simple and inexpensive option when you need a quick fix. Apply heat tape to any pipes that would benefit from an additional insulation layer.
Examine for Leaks
Make sure no leaks are letting cold air into your property. Dryer vents and electrical cables are great targets. Caulk the gaps or add insulation to keep the chilly air out of your home.
When You’re Not in Town
Remember to turn off the water mains and drain the system if you’ll be away from your home for an extended time during the winter.
Tips for Preventing a Broken Water Pipe Outside the House
Water can leak into your property despite a broken water main outside your home. There are often cracks around the areas where your pipes enter your property. Before harsh weather arrives, caulk these holes. Here are some additional suggestions to keep your exterior water pipes from bursting.
Insulate the Walls
To keep your pipes from freezing, add an extra layer of insulation to the external walls that house your plumbing pipes.
Insert Snap-On Insulation
When the temps drop, install snap-on insulation on your pipes outside and in unheated sections of your home. Styrofoam or pool noodles cut and taped together can also help insulate your pipes.
Remove the hoses and faucets.
Make sure you turn off all exterior faucets. Disconnect the water hose from the faucet so that any retained water does not freeze and break the hose. Keep the hose in your garage or shed, away from the outdoors. If you predict a significant temperature decrease overnight, let a small trickle of water run from your external faucet to avoid excessive pressure buildup and a possible burst.
Turn off all watering systems.
Plants become dormant as temperatures drop, so you don’t have to worry about watering them at this time. So turn off your sprinklers or irrigation systems.
Don’t let a leaky water pipe and the resulting water damage be your problem this winter. Instead, take these basic precautions to lessen the chance of burst pipes in your home. Of course, even the most prepared do-it-yourselfer may encounter a burst pipe problem. If you have busted water pipes, contact the water damage professionals at Reztor Restoration for superior restoration service.
Contact Reztor Restoration for assistance.
Restoration after water damage should be left to the experts. Professionals use specialised equipment to avoid microbial growth and other negative effects of water damage, even if they believe you can repair them yourself. Professional repair professionals are indispensable.
Reztor Restoration is here for you around-the-clock if you have inquiries about flood damage cleanup or restoration.
