Freezing Pipes

1/11/2019 (Permalink)

Today one of our crews are out in Alta, Wyoming removing drywall, insulation and packing out contents after a pipe burst in an apartment above a garage.

With the weather being as cold as it is, pipes are known to burst at any given moment. There are definitely steps you can take in order to avoid this disaster. Acording to www.thebalancesmb.com they have six tips that may help you avoid a major headache.

Tip #1: Keep the Heat On

If you or your tenants are leaving for a long period of time, make sure that the heat is kept on in your property.

Tip #2: Allow the Faucet to Drip

If you are afraid a pipe will freeze, you can open the faucet fed by that pipe just a bit so the faucet drips slightly. Allowing the faucet to be open like this relieves pressure in the system.

Tip #3: Keep Interior Doors Open

Pipes are often located in cabinets. When the temperature drops, it is a good idea to keep these cabinet doors open so that the heat from the rest of the house can keep the pipes warm as well. You should also keep all interior doors open so that the heat can flow throughout the home.

Tip #4: Seal up Cracks and Holes

Seal gaps around holes where pipes run through walls or floors, especially where the hole is letting in cold air.

Tip #5: Apply Heating Tape

Heating tape works like an electric blanket for pipes, supplying heat directly to the pipe to keep it warm curing cold spells.

Tip #6: Add Extra Insulation

Pipes that are located in areas that do not have proper insulation, such as basements or attics, may need extra insulation to keep from freezing. Pipes in basements or attics are not the only ones that may not be properly insulated from the cold. If you have had a problem with pipes freezing anywhere in your home, extra insulation could be the cure.

If you have a Fire, Water, Mold, or Asbestos disaster give SERVPRO a call today at (208) 523-5365.