Frozen pipes pose more of a threat to a home than homeowners might think. Once a pipe freezes, it has a higher chance of bursting, causing excessive water damage that can cost a small fortune to repair. However, homeowners can take a few key preventative measures to protect their homes from water damage if their pipes freeze.
DK Environmental is one of Marysville, WA’s leading water damage restoration companies and has helped countless residences resolve their frozen pipes issues. Its team has vast experience safeguarding homes from water damage due to frozen pipes and restoring furniture, walls, floors, and belongings after flooding.
DK Environmental’s water damage restoration experts put together this guide to help homeowners protect their homes from leaking or burst pipes.
How to Prevent Water Damage from Frozen Pipes
1. Drain Water from Vulnerable Pipes
Draining water from high-risk pipes can help homeowners diminish their chances of experiencing water damage. This includes pipes leading to swimming pools, sprinkler systems, etc. Since most people don’t use pools or sprinklers during the winter, it’s best to drain them during the beginning of the season to prepare for freezing temperatures.
2. Seal Wall Cracks
Since many pipes run through a home’s walls and floors, it’s best to seal any cracks or open spots to protect the pipes from cold air. If a pipe bursts inside the walls, it can cause severe damage without the homeowner knowing until it’s too late.
Sealing the cracks in walls and floors gives the pipes an extra layer of protection for freezing weather, allowing the homeowner to avoid expensive water removal and water damage restoration costs.
3. Open Cabinets and Pantries
Opening cabinet and pantry doors allows hot air to circulate around cold pipes, preventing freezing. This is especially important during the chilliest part of the day. It’s a simple yet effective measure that can save homeowners hundreds, if not thousands of dollars in restoration costs.
4. Allow Your Faucets to Drip
A dripping faucet moves water inside the pipes around, making it harder for the water to freeze. It also relieves pressure building up between the ice blockage and the faucet, preventing it from bursting. Although dripping faucets may increase the homeowner’s water bill slightly, it’s a small price to pay compared to the flood cleanup services and water removal costs they could face later.
5. Apply Insulation to Vulnerable Pipes
Applying heated plumbing tape or similar insulating materials to vulnerable pipes will help keep them warm during the coldest winter months. Heated tape is relatively cheap and easy to use, making it perfect for new homeowners looking to protect their property. Just ensure you are using UL rated heat tape appropriate for your application.
There are even a few brands of tape that automatically turn on and heat the pipe when temperatures drop, making it easier on the homeowner. For more information on easy ways to prevent burst pipes, get in touch with a professional water damage restoration company.
Schedule Your Appointment with DK Environmental Today!
If you experience burst or leaky pipes, contact DK Environmental for professional water damage restoration and flood cleanup services. DK Environmental’s experienced restoration experts have helped hundreds of Marysville, WA, residents with their frozen pipes, and they can do the same for you at a fair and affordable price.
Don’t wait until water damage destroys your property. Contact DK Environmental at (425) 903-4356 and receive the water damage restoration you deserve today!
