Wintertime can be beautiful, but the cold weather has the potential to damage your home’s plumbing. No one wants to deal with the consequences of burst pipes, such as the damages, expenses, and messes they bring. So, why do pipes burst during the winter? The main reason is that the water entering your home from the outside is colder than it was in the summer months. This cold water causes pipes to contract and in some weak spots, can lead to bursting. This is because the pipe is unable to contain the water pressure within it.
Burst pipes can cause significant damage to homes and businesses, leading to costly repairs and extended periods of inconvenience. This is particularly true during the winter months when the cold weather can cause pipes to freeze, causing them to expand and eventually burst. Fortunately, there are several ways to combat the burst-pipes season and minimize the risk of damage to your home’s plumbing.
Insulate Your Pipes
One of the most effective ways to combat the potential for burst pipes is to insulate pipes in your home or business. Insulation helps to keep pipes warm and reduces the risk of freezing. This can be done by wrapping pipes in insulation materials, such as fiberglass or foam, or by installing pre-made insulation sleeves. It is particularly important to insulate pipes that are located in areas that are not heated, such as attics, garages, and crawl spaces. You can also run a small trickle of water from faucets connected to exposed pipes to help prevent those pipes from freezing. This is because the movement of water can help prevent the water in the pipes from freezing.
Seal Up Any Cracks or Holes
Another way to prevent burst pipes is to seal up any cracks or holes in your home. This can help to prevent cold air from entering the building and causing pipes to freeze. The most common places to look for cracks or holes include areas around windows, doors, and electrical wiring. Sealing such air leaks can prevent cold air from entering your home and causing pipes to freeze. You can use weather stripping, caulk, or foam to seal these areas, which can also help improve your home’s energy efficiency.
Keep Your Home at a Consistent Temperature
Keeping your home or business at a consistent temperature is another way to prevent any pipe bursts in your home. This helps to reduce the risk of pipes freezing by ensuring that the temperature inside the building remains warm and consistent, even during the coldest winter months. This can be achieved by setting the thermostat to a consistent temperature and ensuring that all rooms are heated evenly.
By taking these proactive measures, you can minimize the risk of burst pipes and enjoy peace of mind during the winter months. But if you do experience burst pipes, it is important to act quickly to prevent further damage and to ensure the safety of your home. The Plumbing Works team is a reliable and professional crew with the expertise needed to handle any burst pipe emergency. With their fast response time, expert technicians, and use of state-of-the-art technology, you can trust that they will get the job done right. Contact The Plumbing Works today to resolve your burst pipe issue quickly and efficiently.
