Every property owner dreads the infamous potential hassle of bursting pipes during the coldest months of the year.
However, we see many clients face this destruction without the knowledge of proper precautions.
When temperatures drop, water flowing into your building is suddenly much colder than before. If the water freezes, it expands within the pipes, adding significant pressure to your system. If your plumbing is aged or weakened, or if certain pipes are too exposed to frigid temperatures, before long this will increase your chance of bursting pipes and extensive water damage.
Before you find yourself in this worst case scenario, follow these basic steps to keep your property safe from harm this season.
- Investigate the building for any leaking air flow, and be sure all areas are sealed around pipes, vents, wiring, etc.
- Sufficiently insulate pipes so that they are never exposed to temperatures below 32 degrees, especially along exterior walls.
- Keep the building's temperature as consistent as possible at no less than 55 degrees at any time.
- Drain water from the sprinkler lines, pools, and hoses, and store materials correctly so they don't hold water that will freeze later.
- Close the interior shut-off valve leading to exterior faucets and spigots, and drain them from the outside.
- When temperatures are extremely cold, turn on susceptible faucets to a slow, constant drip, preventing the water in the pipes from freezing.
- Schedule routine inspections of your plumbing system, and relax knowing expensive, significant repairs are being kept in check.
Dealing with bursting pipes is one of the most difficult and serious issues to face, especially for buildings that rely on good impressions and trusting professional relationships.