Burst pipes can cause a significant amount of damage in a short period. Although this plumbing problem can happen anytime, it’s mainly prevalent in the winter. Hudepohl Restoration in Cincinnati, OH, and Jeffersonville, IN, has over 30 years of experience providing restoration services for fire, storm, and water damage. These professionals know the frigid Midwest winters can take a toll on residential and commercial plumbing systems. Here, they provide a handy guide to help you understand what causes pipes to burst and what you can do to prevent it. 

What Causes a Pipe to Burst? 

There are four primary causes of burst pipes: frozen water, movement, water pressure, and corrosion. During the winter, when the outside temperatures drop below 20 degrees Fahrenheit, freezing is the most common culprit. When the water inside pipes solidifies into ice, its density increases and it expands, increasing the pressure inside. When there’s too much pressure for the pipe to contain, it bursts. 

How Can You Prevent It? 

A burst pipe in the winter is a homeowner’s worst nightmare. Not only can it cause severe water damage to your home and belongings, but it can also result in inoperable plumbing and expensive repairs. Fortunately, there are a few steps you can take to reduce the risk. 

One of the best ways to prevent frozen pipes is to keep your faucets running at a slow but steady drip. This keeps water moving through the pipes and prevents excess pressure from building inside. Additionally, insulate exposed water pipes with foam sleeves or heating tape, particularly those located outdoors or in unheated basements and crawlspaces. Adequate wall insulation is also essential. 

You should also maintain a consistent temperature in the home above 55 degrees Fahrenheit, even when you’re away. Finally, open cabinet doors leading to exposed water pipes, such as those beneath the kitchen or bathroom sinks. Doing so allows warm air to circulate into the cupboard and heat the pipes. 

Although no one wants to think it could happen to them, it’s important to know who to call in case of an emergency. For residents of Jeffersonville and Cincinnati, that’s Hudepohl Restoration. This locally owned company has earned a reputation for prompt, reliable restoration and remodeling services, helping families and businesses recover from disasters large and small. If you’re in need of residential or commercial water damage restoration, call (502) 873-5744 for Jeffersonville or (513) 398-9691 for Cincinnati to speak with a helpful team member. Or, visit the website to learn more about their services.