How to Avoid Pipe Bursts in the Winter

We have all heard too many stories about (or even experienced firsthand) pipes erupting during the winter because of the freezing temperatures. Pipe bursting in the summer can happen for a variety of reasons, that is why it is extremely crucial to be prepared. Here’s all you need to know about just what causes the pipe to burst during the summer and also how to avoid any other source of water damage and cleanup issues.

Extreme Temperatures

Extreme temperatures, either cold or hot, increase the possibility that your pipes will burst. Lack of rainfall to cool the earth and extreme heat during the summer season can cause the land to dry out, making the soil looser. Pipes have much more space to shift within the ground as they expand due to the extreme heat. To avoid burst pipes during summertime, reduce the amount of water you use and use reduced pressure when turning on the faucets to help relieve your system.

Older Pipes

Your pipes might not even be affected by cold or heat, however, if they are old, rusted, and have gone through too much wear and tear, they are prone to bursting. Each and every year, have your pipes checked to make sure they can endure the water pressure.

Hard Water Corrodes Pipes

The type of water flowing through your pipes can have an impact on their integrity.  Hard water contains higher levels of calcium and magnesium than soft water. Both minerals can be fatal to the pipes in your house. When these minerals accumulate in the faucets and pipes, they can reduce water pressure. The accumulation can corrode your pipes over time, causing holes in the water flow.

How to Avoid Winter Pipe Bursts

Perform Regular Checkups. The best way to prevent burst pipes in the warmer months is to inspect them regularly. If you are unable to conduct regular inspections, conduct them every other year.

Turn off the Water Supply While Traveling

When households flood, it is usually because the property owners have gone away. Pipes are left unattended during this time, and small leaks go undetected for far too long. When the temperature is extremely hot, the pipelines can burst. When traveling, make sure to turn off the water supply or have a friend come by to check your pipes every few days.

Pipe Insulation

Insulating wraps or tape may also protect your pipes from the elements. You might be able to do this on your own, but a skilled flood prevention expert can assist you.

Contact the Pros

There are several things you can do to protect your pipes during the winter months, and these suggestions are a good place to begin. We can assist you if you require immediate water damage repair and cleanup. Our goal is to put the house owner at ease while providing high-quality restoration and repair in a professional and timely manner. For water damage cleanup call us today.

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“My father's old family home had frozen pipes that burst and there was extreme water damage throughout the home. My father called Atlantic on a Saturday morning and Greg and his entire crew including a plumber & electrician arrived at my family's home within an hour of my call. From start to finish they were a pleasure to work with. They dealt with our insurance company and adjuster to ensure the entire loss was covered. I highly recommend Atlantic they are an extremely knowledgeable company with amazing staff and customer service."
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“Desperate to pump out a flooded basement. Not a high ticket insurance claim item. Took a chance and called Atlantic. Carlos Called, showed up in less than an hour and went right to work with the pumps. It was more complicated than we thought and he set us up with another contractor who could do what he wasn’t equipped to do. (Snake the main drain). Contractor also showed up when he said he would. Carlos also left a dehumidifier overnight to dry out as much as possible. Amazing contractor. Lose the number for Servpro. This company is awesome!"
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