When water freezes, it expands. When the water in your home or business’ pipes freeze, the expansion creates pressure, which can cause the pipes to crack and break. To learn how to prevent pipes from freezing, it’s best to start with determining which pipes are more likely to freeze. Use these tips from your professionals at ServiceMaster Restore to learn how to prevent pipes from freezing, plus information on what to do if your pipes have already frozen this winter.
Pipes That Are Most Likely to Freeze
In general, the pipes that typically freeze during winter are the ones exposed to extreme cold. These may include any outdoor water pipes like water sprinkler lines and swimming pool supply lines, as well as water pipes located in unheated areas of the home. Pipes in unheated basements, attics, garages, crawl spaces and even under the kitchen or bathroom sink are at risk for freezing. If your home has pipes that run along exterior walls with insufficient or no insulation, these pipes are also at risk for freezing in winter months.
What To Do If Your Pipes Freeze
If you suspect that a pipe is frozen but hasn’t cracked yet, you may be able to thaw it out before extensive water damage from busted pipes occurs. Try using a hair dryer to thaw out the pipe.
In the event that your frozen pipes do crack, you may be at risk of pipe bursts, which could result in water damage that needs professional attention. To help minimize water damage, turn off your water at the main shutoff valve and call ServiceMaster right away. Our water mitigation team can work fast to mitigate additional damage. With the proper knowledge, expertise and tools, our team will extract, dry and complete the clean-up, helping you get back on your feet as quickly as possible.
Water damage to your home or business can be stressful, but you should know that help is always available. With Bales Restoration, all work is guaranteed. For a FREE estimate, call us. Emergency service is available.
Wet stains appear on ceilings when water has seeped through the material and stayed there for a while. If the spot is on the first floor of your home, it could mean that there is a leak in an upstairs appliance or a pipe that is running through that section of the home. If it is on the second floor of your home, the most likely culprit is a leaky roof.
In some occasions, drywall will absorb some of the excess moisture in a property, which will cause it to bubble up and become swollen. Inspect every inch of the house thoroughly for an accumulation of water inside its drywall walls.
Speaking of materials that tend to accumulate/absorb water, you should also take a good look at any rotten wood in the house. Verify that the wooden furniture, fixtures, and more, are in good condition
Musty smells in houses may be attributed to several causes, including: Mold and mildew: Leaky pipes, a damaged roof, high humidity, and exposed dirt in the crawlspace may all contribute to moisture buildup. This moisture combined with the stagnant air and dark corners can lead to the growth of mold and mildew.
.The paint job on the property also suffers when there's excess humidity or water damage. For that reason, it's important that you notice its condition: if it's bubbling, discolored, or it's peeling off, there may be some damage.
Few things are as off-putting as finding mold development in a property. If the one you have your eye on has it, it's better to walk away from the deal, as it could be a health hazard for you and your family. If you are venturing into a real estate transaction, you should also make sure that the property doesn't have any title issues.
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