Freezing and bursting pipes are common in frigid temperatures and can have devastating consequences for your property, requiring extensive water damage restoration. Before the coldest months of the year arrive, use the following information to winterize your pipes and protect your home from harsh weather conditions.

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes

Pipes often burst after the water inside them freezes and builds up a great deal of pressure. To prevent this from happening, you must keep the pipes warm enough for the water to continue flowing. Use foam or heat tape to insulate any pipes exposed to the cold, such as those in the basement, crawlspaces, attic, garage, or next to exterior walls.

When the temperatures drop to freezing, leave your faucets on a trickle to keep water moving through the plumbing system. Maintain a warm living environment, even when you’re away. Open cabinet doors where pipes are installed to allow warm air to reach them. It’s also smart to have leaky pipes repaired before winter settles in.

What to Do If Pipes Freeze

If your faucets fail to deliver water or your toilet doesn’t refill after flushing, the pipes may be frozen. In these circumstances, cautiously try to thaw them out to keep them from bursting and requiring water damage restoration.

First, shut off the main water valve. Then apply low heat from a hairdryer or use a heat lamp on the frozen sections until the water flow returns to normal. If you don’t know which parts are frozen or can’t access them, seek a plumber’s assistance.

If you experience a burst pipe during the winter, trust the professionals at All Care Restorations to provide a prompt and effective solution. Since 1994, this family-owned and -operated business has used the latest industry equipment and techniques to help residents across Lancaster County, NE, minimize their losses. They offer high-quality water damage restoration anytime in the day or night to take care of emergency situations. Call (402) 421-3779 to begin the water damage restoration process, or visit them online to learn more about their services.