As snow settles in and the temperatures begin to fall, an insidious threat might just lurk inside your walls—burst pipes! Once you’ve awoken to one of these, you’ll never forget it, and neither will your home if you don’t seek immediate water damage restoration services. Without the proper cleanup, you’re not only left with a soggy mess, but the potential for mold growth—which can happen in under 48 hours, according to the US Department of Homeland Security.
Indeed, burst pipes are a wintertime problem that’s best handled preventatively, and Intelligent Design Corporation is here to help. Below, the water damage experts discuss a few smart steps to take if you want to avoid this cold-season catastrophe.
Insulate Your Pipes
The American Red Cross recommends that you “Consider installing specific products made to insulate water pipes like a "pipe sleeve" or installing UL-listed "heat tape," "heat cable," or similar materials on exposed water pipes” if you want to prevent them from freezing. A frozen pipe is not only a major inconvenience, as it restricts your water supply, but it’s also one that’s unusually prone to bursting, as water expands when it freezes.
We recommend taking this a step further and insulating any pipe that comes in contact with cold air. This includes those that run near your exterior walls, in your attic, or in your crawlspace, if you have one. If you need help with this task, get a plumber to help you, though it’s rare that insulation as far as pipes go will actually harm them.
Invest in a Sturdy Exterior
Even the smallest crack in your siding or the most miniscule roof leak can let winter air in, creating the perfect situation for your plumbing to give you the cold shoulder and freeze—which as we said, is a precursor to bursting. This is why winterization is important, but it’s also why it’s critical you keep an eye on your home’s exterior throughout the cold season. Take prompt action and call your preferred siding contractor, roofing company, or the like if you notice anything out of the ordinary.
Be Smart About Leaving Home
Many families in Minnesota take breaks from the chill and vacation this time of year. Whether it’s to visit relatives or to indulge in a private retreat, never leave your pipes unattended, even overnight. Ask a neighbor to keep an eye on them—even if you’ve done all the proper drainage procedures, there still is a possibility for human error.
Intelligent Design Corporation: Here for Your Family This Winter
With our water damage cleanup expertise, you’ll always be safe and supported, even if the unthinkable happens. Reach our Maple Grove office now at 763-315-0745.