Preparing for a Midwestern Winter

12/5/2018 (Permalink)

With winter weather already upon us-one Snowmageddon down, who knows how many to go-and temperatures already holding in the low 30's it is time to look at preventing frozen pipes in your home.  When the weather is averaging 31 degrees it puts exterior pipes like hose bibs and irrigation systems at risk.

For houses without adequate protection the temperature alert threshold is 20 degrees Fahrenheit. At this temperature un-insulated pipes in unconditioned areas are at risk.

However, pipes can freeze in well insulated houses when the temperatures dip into the teens or below. Extended period of time with temperatures in this range can be dangerous, as heat within enclosed areas of a structure naturally dissipates.

Of course we all have heard the tip to open cabinet doors. It is a simple fix that can save you an immense amount of difficulty. Somehow though we are inclined to think, because it has not happened it will not happen. That is all good and well until it happens.

When pipes freeze hundreds of gallons of water can flow through the walls, behind cabinets and into ceilings. Water damage can cause cabinets to swell, ceilings to collapse, along with damage to furniture and belongings. Water damage also causes soaked carpet and pad. Hardwood and laminate floors can buckle and swell.

As cold spells move across the country make it a habit to open doors to enclosed spaces that contain plumbing. On a side note when you open those doors make sure to remove any hazardous materials to keep them away from children and pets.

If your pipes do freeze make sure to shut the water off at the source, call a plumber to fix the pipe and call SERVPRO of Leavenworth & NW Wyandotte. Here at SERVPRO we have the training and equipment to make water damage in your home “Like it never even happened.”

913-772-1818