Don’t let frozen pipes ruin your winter holidays

10/30/2015 (Permalink)

The cold weather always finds a way to creep up on us, making us bundle up in layers of clothes to keep warm. Although the cold weather is an indication of fun holidays and family get-togethers, it’s also a warning to make sure your Nashville home is prepared to avoid water and mold damage. Don’t let your pipes bursting ruin your holiday fun. Danny Lipford, writer of Today’s Homeowner, shares some tips on how to prevent your pipes from freezing.

·      Insulate your pipes

The pipes located in your crawlspace, basement, attic and exterior walls are all crucial locations to insulate. Snap-on foam insulation can be used and secured tightly to make sure there are no gaps and joints in the pipes are completely covered.

·      Drip faucets

During cold days and nights, it helps to let your faucets drip both hot and cold water to avoid pressure build-up and keep the water moving to prevent freezing.

·      Heat pipes

Wrapping pipes with UL approved heat tape is a way to help prevent your pipes from freezing. Make sure the tape has a built-in thermostat to prevent from overheating and causing possible fire hazards. Make sure to read instructions thoroughly when using heat tape.

·      Check foundation

Having cracks in your foundation walls can cause cooler weather to get in and make it more likely for pipes to freeze. Fill the cracks with caulking or expanding foam.

Source - http://www.todayshomeowner.com/how-to-prevent-pipes-from-freezing-and-thaw-frozen-pipes/