Freezing Temperatures, Frozen Pipes and What That Means For You this Winter:

Colorado is known to have extremely cold winters. It’s freezing temperatures are a major concern for homeowners, renters, and even business owners.  No matter which place you find yourself in, it is always important to understand the potential damages that can occur when a pipe does freeze but especially, how to prevent it.

Frozen

Colorado has a tendency to fluctuate in temperature significantly throughout the year, and often shows signs of early freezes, cold spells and even snow storms in the Fall season.  Some might assume that only higher elevated cities would have the coldest temperatures, but in our case, the lower elevations along the foothills, Denver, Colorado Springs and everywhere in-between have the same chances of experiencing temperature fluctuations severe enough to induce frozen pipes and pipe bursting, if no steps are taken to prevent it. This is why it’s always recommended to start taking precautions as soon as possible, before the temperature drops.

Some of the steps that, you as the homeowner or tenant, can take are draining water sprinkler supply lines and outdoor hoses. Closing the inside valves supplying to outdoor use is also recommended. Any water remaining in the pipe can expand and cause the pipe to break, flooding your home or business.

An easy and low cost method to further prevent a freeze break might be to insulate your interior water supply pipes. Both cold and hot water lines should be taken into consideration especially in unheated areas. Basements, crawl spaces, attics, and garages are often a key contributor to a pipe freeze break due to the naturally lower temperatures that reside there.

Pipe sleeves, heat tape, heat cable, or similar materials are great products to help prevent your basement flooding and further water damage. Always make sure to follow manufacturer instructions when using these products.

While it is still necessary to carry proper insurance in case of a potential freeze break or water loss, your chances of the freeze break will be significantly lower if steps are taken before the seasons change and the temperature falls below freezing. If you do find yourself in a bind where your pipes burst and experience water damage to your property, our experienced staff specialize in mitigation, clean up and restoration will be able to respond 24/7. Our team can help from the clean-up and mitigation process, to restoration and rebuild process- so that you can carry on as if nothing ever happened.

For more tips on preventing pipe freeze breaks, and for further information, visit Red Cross’ website:
http://www.redcross.org/news/article/Preventing-and-Thawing-Frozen-Pipes