Showing posts with label pipes. Show all posts
Showing posts with label pipes. Show all posts
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Think You Can Take On That Bathroom Remodeling Project?
Before You Decide to Do It Yourself, Read This!With one of the highest rates of return on investment of any home improvement, bathroom remodeling not only adds value to your home, but also is a major selling point for potential buyers. However, when you consider everything that goes into a quality bathroom renovation, the costs can add up quickly. From fixtures to plumbing to floors to paint, you may find yourself in over your head before you even begin. Add expensive labor costs and contractor fees and you may start to think that doing the work yourself is not a bad idea. But before you undertake a major bathroom renovation project on your own, think about it carefully.
Sure, you can manage to finish all the work yourself but can you manage to make it look great? We all want to save money, but none of us wants oddly cut tiles, crooked wallpaper, peeling paint,leaky pipes an uneven toilet, or any one of the number of other little mistakes that can creep their way into an amateur remodeling project. Make sure you’re ready for—and can live with—a finished job that looks like you did it yourself.
Have you ever planned and executed such a project before? Not everyone has the eye, the vision, the understanding, the attention to detail, or the focus to properly design a bathroom themselves. And have you ever actually performed any of the remodeling tasks that your plan calls for or used any of the tools required to do the job? If you are inexperienced or just all thumbs, you may be biting off a lot more than you can chew.
Are you basing your bathroom remodel on something you got from a home improvement book or magazine? Sure, on paper it may seem like a simple, step-by-step process. But remodeling a bathroom is not like baking cookies. All homes and bathrooms are not alike, and a cookie-cutter, one-size-fits-all design project may simply not work for your bathroom situation.
Does your municipality require permits for such work? If so, do you know how to acquire them? Plumbing and remodeling contractors can get these permits easily; do-it-yourselfers may not know the proper channels.
If you’ve ever attempted a do-it-yourself home improvement you know how hard it can be to overlook even the smallest mistake once the project is complete. Your eyes go over and over that one spot that looks less than perfect or that dark corner that just doesn’t seem right. If you’re the kind of person who is uncomfortable with imperfection or can’t deal with your own failures then it may be better to leave the job to a professional.
One of the best things about hiring a pro is that they know people. And not just any people. They know people who can get great deals on everything from light fixtures to faucets to custom tiles. You probably do not know these people. A professional can help you get the best price on the best materials; you could actually end up paying more by doing things on your own.
Home improvements take time. In some cases, they can take lots of time—time away from your spouse, your kids, your normal life. Before you undertake a major renovation like a bathroom remodel, make sure you consider the toll it may take on your personal life and your relationships. Annoying delays and setbacks can pile up, making what once seemed like a simple project drag on for weeks or months. Unless you’re truly prepared for the unknown, you may want to leave things to the pros.
Bathroom upgrades are not a simple home improvement project. You may be reluctant to spend money on hiring a professional, but this is really the only way to avoid costly mistakes. It is possible, though, to save money even if you go with a pro. Here are some ways how:
- Buy your own fixtures instead of paying the contractor’s mark-up.
- Remove tile and flooring yourself if your plan is to replace it anyway.
- Take on painting and tiling on your own. Even if you’re a total novice, you can do a good job with a little practice.
Don't Forget: Beautiful walls, cabinets and floors are great, but the real guts of your bathroom are the pipes and plumbing fixtures. You not only want your remodeled bathroom to look like a million bucks, you want it to be functional and worry-free. If your bathroom remodeling project calls for the installation, replacement or reconfiguration of plumbing fixtures, pipes and equipment, call the plumbing professionals at Horizon Services. We will make sure that everything is installed and connected properly and fully operational so that you can use and enjoy your new bathroom to its fullest.
Related Bathroom and Plumbing Information from Horizon Services...
Related Bathroom and Plumbing Information from Horizon Services...
- Horizon Plumbing Services
- Horizon Drain Cleaning Services
- Horizon Sewer Line Services
- How To Properly Use a Plunger to Unclog a Toilet, Sink or Tub
- Winter Plumbing Maintenance Tips
- 9 Ways to Save Water
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Thursday, November 4, 2010
Important Safety Tips for Using Chemical Drain Cleaners
Chemical drain cleaners are useful for clearing all sorts of tough clogs. However there are a variety of risks and dangers with using these chemicals to clear your drains. Many of these chemicals emit harsh fumes that can be harmful if they are inhaled. Many can burn and scar if they come in contact with your skin. And they can damage clothing, floors, counters...even your pipes themselves if not used properly. The following tips will help you use these drain cleaners safely.Avoid the Most Harmful Cleaners
Some chemical drain de-clogging agents use lye or acid. These harsh chemicals are not only harmful to your health, but they can also contaminate waste water and cause damage to PVC piping. If you must use a cleaner with acid or lye, be sure to wear gloves and a protective mask. Ventilate the room as much as possible, and store them properly when you’re finished—opt for cleaners with a child-proof safety cap or put them in a locked cabinet or on a high shelf.
Always Read the Label
Not all drain cleaners are created equal, and using the wrong cleaner can cause major headaches. Some cleaners can eat through your plumbing, some can damage your septic system, and some can cause serious burns if they come in contact with your skin. Before you use a cleaner, read the label thoroughly to ensure that the cleaner is safe for your intended usage. You’ll also want to look for any label recommendations about safety and cleanup in case of an accidental spill.
Prevent Clog Build-Up
Do your best to keep grease and debris out of your drains and you won’t have to rely on a chemical drain cleaner to remove clogs quite so often. You’ll also cut down on unpleasant odors and help your pipes work more efficiently. A simple salt water solution, poured down the drain every couple of weeks, will flush out grease and eliminate odors from showers, sinks, and garbage disposals.
Consider These Drain Cleaning Alternatives
Harsh chemical cleaners are not the only option you have to cure a clogged drain. There are several alternatives that are just as effective without the potentially harmful side effects.
A sewer jetter sprays an adjustable, high-pressure stream of water down your drains, powering away clogs quickly and without harsh chemicals. Because you’re only using water, there’s no chance of damaging pipes or fixtures or of contaminating your home with noxious fumes. You can purchase a sewer jetter at most plumbing supply stores or large home improvement warehouses. Be sure to read the instructions thoroughly before use.
There are also plenty of natural drain cleaning methods. One of the most effective uses plain baking soda and white vinegar. First, remove any standing water in the basin or around the drain. Pour about ½ cup of ordinary baking soda into the drain, followed by ½ cup of vinegar. The two substances will react inside the pipes, dissolving clogs and allowing water to flow freely again. You can repeat these steps as many times as necessary to remove the clog. While the smell of vinegar might not be the most pleasant, it’s certainly non-toxic and much better for your plumbing, your home, and your health than any harsh chemical drain cleaner.
Your Best Bet: Call a Drain Cleaning Professional
Are you a chemist? Do you really know what happens when this chemical comes in contact with that substance? The thing about chemicals is that they produce chemical reactions. You've seen enough mad scientist movies to know that chemical reactions are almost never mild!
Plumbers and drain cleaning professionals aren't chemists either. That's why they generally only go the chemical route as a last resort.
If you have a clogged drain that's so bad that you need to resort to chemicals, the problem is probably beyond your scope. At this point, call a plumbing and drain contractor such as Horizon Services. We have an arsenal of non-chemical tools and means at our disposal that can safely remove virtually any clog. And in that rare instance when chemicals are required, our highly trained drain cleaning pros know how to safely and cleanly mix and pour the chemical without harming your pipes, kitchens or bathrooms.
Related Drain Cleaning Information from Horizon Services...
Monday, October 11, 2010
The Importance of Pipe Insulation
Winter's Coming...Are Your Pipes Protected?Pipe insulation is probably something you never think about as a homeowner. The fact is, though, that most home builders don’t think about it much either. Skimping on pipe insulation is one of the first places that shady contractors look to cut corners in order to present customers with a more attractive bottom line. However, proper pipe insulation is one of the most important facets of your home’s infrastructure; not only does insulation improve the performance and life of your plumbing, it also protects them against damage from extreme temperatures or weather.
If you feel that your home’s plumbing system is not properly insulated, you should consult a plumbing professional immediately. Here are some important things you should know about pipe insulation:
Frozen Pipes
The most serious threat to poorly insulated pipes is freezing temperatures. When the mercury drops, standing water left in pipes can freeze and expand, causing tiny cracks that may break open or burst altogether. It is essential that exposed pipes are properly insulated, especially in areas prone to below-zero temperatures. The cost of additional insulation is minute when you think about the cost of repairing damages caused by a burst pipe.
Obviously, outdoor pipes should be insulated, but even exposed pipes in your home can freeze if the temperature gets low enough. Be sure to look over pipes in the basement, attic, crawl spaces, under sinks, in utility rooms or garages, and in the laundry room and insulate them. If you should lose power during a winter storm or go on vacation during a cold snap, you could be forced to deal with the consequences of frozen or burst pipes.
Energy Costs
Believe it or not, insulating pipes can significantly impact your overall energy consumption. As utility costs rise and amid growing concerns about the environment, homeowners all over the country are paying more attention to how they use energy. Proper insulation around pipes limits heat transfer and provides a vapor barrier against moisture, which improves the thermal efficiency of your home and saves you money.
Water Damage
Poorly insulated pipes allow water to condense, which leaves pipes susceptible to standing water that can freeze in cold weather. This can cost you thousands of dollars in water damage to walls, ceilings, floors, and furniture. Condensation can also speed the deterioration of pipes, causing erosion, leaks, cracks, and gaps. By adding a bit of extra insulation, you can eliminate the potential for water damage from burst pipes and erosion.
Insulation Materials
The biggest problem with pipe insulation is keeping it dry. Traditional pipe insulation includes materials like fiberglass and minerals; these have been joined by flexible and rigid closed-cell glass products. Glass insulation provides a better barrier against moisture, helping pipes stay dry. Some contractors also use a wicking material that wraps around pipes to help absorb moisture and carry it away from the insulation jacket, where it evaporates. For underground pipes, most new insulation is made from polyurethane foam, which offers excellent protection and limits moisture accumulation.
Related Information from Horizon Services...
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Yes, You CAN Improve Your Water Pressure!
May The Force Be With You!Water pressure is sort of like tires on your car: You never really notice it until something goes wrong. Showers slow to a pathetic drizzle. The dishwasher stops cleaning dishes. Garden hoses are rendered useless. Drinking water trickles out of your faucets. While most of us simply live with water pressure problems, there are several ways you can easily improve your home’s water pressure without too much fuss.
City Water Pressure
If you get your water from your local municipality, the main lines are laid underground where water pressure is very high. Friction causes the water to lose pressure as it travels through the main line and into your house. Even more water pressure is lost as it travels through your plumbing and out your faucet. The smaller the space, the more friction builds up. If you’ve got low water pressure coming from a faucet, chances are there’s too much friction somewhere between the main municipal supply line and your sink.
While this may seem like a pretty vague diagnosis, it’s relatively easy to pinpoint the problem.
Pipes that are too small generate more friction than ones that are larger. Even a fraction of an inch can make a big difference in improving water pressure. If you have ½ inch pipes in your house, replacing just the exposed ones with larger ¾ inch pipes can significantly increase your water pressure. You could also hire a professional to replace all the plumbing in your house, which will produce even greater water pressure results. If you’re building a new house, consider upgrading to larger pipes. You’ll pay a bit more, but the “hassle savings” alone will more than make up for the extra cost.
Another common problem that can affect water pressure is a blockage or build-up in your pipes. As water travels through plumbing it leaves small mineral deposits. Over time, these deposits can accumulate on the inside of the pipes and shrink their diameter, kind of like plaque that builds up in the arteries of people with high cholesterol. This essentially makes the pipes smaller and increases friction, impacting water pressure. The good news is that this kind of mineral build-up is obvious to the naked eye, so removing a small sample section of pipe will quickly shed light on the problem. There are many chemicals available on the market that will break down these deposits and flush them from your plumbing.
If your water pressure woes are sudden, the problem could be with the main water line. You should contact your water company and inform them of the issue; they will be able to provide more information or give you next steps to follow.
Well Water Pressure
If your home uses well water, you have a water pressure tank instead of a main municipal line. The water pressure tank can be the source of a whole other set of problems in addition to the ones that city water users have. A tank that’s too small can be ill-equipped to maintain adequate pressure when water is used in several places in your home at once. The tanks can leak, too, which causes a loss of water pressure. It’s wise to have your water pressure tank checked by a plumber or well professional if you experience any sudden changes in water pressure.
Related Information from Horizon Services...
Monday, October 4, 2010
Common Drain, Sewer and Water Line Problems
We Separate the Minor Inconveniences from the Major Headaches!Got a backed up or slow moving drain? A toilet that won't flush? Waste water that comes back up your sink, shower or tub drains? A foul smell in your yard or basement? JOIN THE CLUB! As the weather gets cooler, we at Horizon Services usually begin to see an increase in drain, sewer and water line service calls. For many homeowners, the recent intense rainfall and flood conditions in the Mid-Atlantic states -- particularly our service area of Delaware, Pennsylvania and Maryland -- have brought latent drain, sewer and water line problems that have been lurking invisibly in the shadows out into the open in a very dramatic fashion.
Face it...there are many things that can go wrong with your home's drain, sewer and water line system. For example, years of accumulated waste can cause major obstructions in pipes and lines. Old pipes and seals can crack, corrode or collapse. Tree roots can even infiltrate sewer and water lines These are the kinds of drain, sewer and water line problems that can require significant repair and expense.
The good news is that the majority of drain, sewer and water line issues are not that severe. Most are easily and inexpensively repaired. And most are preventable.
The vast majority of drain, sewer and water line problems are usually caused by minor incidents such as something falling down the pipe, clogging due to inappropriate matter being sent down the sink or toilet, and frozen pipes in colder weather.
Identifying the problem is the first step. Visually inspecting your sinks, tubs, showers, toilets and pipes will usually reveal the source of the problem. If the problem isn't deep down in your drains or lines, there's a good chance that you can resolve it yourself...or at least save time and money by pointing your drain or sewer/water line repairman in the right direction when they arrive at your home.
In the case of clogged sinks or toilets that won't flush, if the problem isn’t solved by using a plunger to unblock it, then the cause is probably due to an obstruction further down the line. You can use a plumber's snake or coiled wire (available at most hardware stores) to probe into the drain and get to where a basic plunger cannot to remove the obstruction. If this doesn’t work, your next step may be to remove the toilet bowl or sink to get access to the main pipe. This can be a delicate job, so it is best to call in a professional plumber or drain professional at this point.
In cold weather, frozen pipes is one of the most common causes of backed-up or slow moving drains. This is especially common when homeowners have been away for some time and turned the thermostat right down. Water moving slowly and at a low temperature causes ice to form and expand, causing blockages that exert increasing pressure on the pipes. Wrap the pipes in special wrap heat tape and leave it in place for at least 24 hours or until the blockage is cleared. Also consider leaving the thermostat at a higher setting to keep warm water circulating whilst you’re away for a while.
If you find that your boiler starts making a noise, this is probably because of hot spots forming due to a build up of steam, caused in turn by air building up in the system. The hot spots sometimes make banging noises when they get too hot, which is where the noise in the boiler comes from. The root cause of the build up of air is a lack of water in the system, but it can also be caused by a build up of scale on the inner surface of the boiler, in which case feed a boiler cleanser into the expansion.
Drainage pipes helpfully tend to run in straight lines, which facilitate the sorting out of problems. Inspection chambers covered by manhole covers are placed at each joint, and these covers can be lifted with a crowbar to check for blockages and to clean the manhole of accumulated debris where necessary. If you find the inspection chamber empty, the blockage must be closer to the house, so move on to the next one in that direction, and if it is full move in the opposite direction to look for the blockage. Once the blockage area has been isolated, you can insert the plumber' snake down the pipe in the direction of the blockage to clear it.
The drain cleaning and sewer/water line repair professionals at Horizon Services encourage all homeowners especially cognizant, vigilant and proactive in the maintenance of their home's drains, pipes and lines. Be aware of what you are putting down sinks, garbage disposals and toilets -- particularly large solid objects, grease and hair. Keep your eyes and ears open for the signs of drain, sewer and water line damage or obstruction. Insulate your pipes in cold weather. If you suspect a problem, don't delay -- call a drain cleaning or sewer & water line contractor immediately to fix the problem before it becomes large and expensive.
Related Information from Horizon Services...
Monday, August 23, 2010
PEX Plumbing Grows in Popularity
Today’s New Plastic Piping Can Be a Smart Alternative to Traditional Plumbing Solutions!PEX piping is fast becoming one of the most widely used and affordable plumbing solutions on the market. PEX is an acronym for “cross-linked polyethylene”. It is a bendable, plastic plumbing pipe that was first developed in the 1960s but has become extremely popular in recent years for residential plumbing purposes.
PEX plumbing has many advantages over traditional plumbing and piping materials – including copper and other plastics. It is easy to install, more affordable than copper and other metals, and has a reputation for great performance. PEX pipe is made through a special chemical process that gives it great strength. PEX piping is able to withstand a wide temperature range – from sub-freezing temperatures up to 180 degrees F. PEX piping is also quieter than most traditional pipe systems. PEX connections are much simpler to make and don’t require soldering or gluing like fixed metal pipes. Plus, PEX pipes can bend around corners, reducing the need for joints – which is where most leaks and pipe failures occur.
PEX is a Great Value:
One of the biggest benefits of using PEX pipe in your home is the cost. From materials to installation, PEX is by far the most cost effective plumbing you can buy. The pipe itself is cheaper than other materials, and you’ll also save big on installation and labor costs because PEX comes in longer, flexible sections with fewer fixings. The light weight and easy fitting of PEX makes the entire installation process much shorter than traditional plumbing, so you can outfit your whole home with PEX in dramatically less time than it would take to re-plumb conventionally.
PEX Delivers Performance:
PEX pipe has so far proven more durable than traditional plumbing, too. There’s no need to worry about potable water delivery because the plastic is resistant to most of the chemicals commonly found in water systems. The smooth interior of the pipes means less corrosive build-up and mineral deposits to clog the plumbing over time. The flexible material resists freezing and bursting much better than traditional metal pipes.
PEX Provides Maintenance Savings:
The convenience of PEX installation carries over into maintenance, too. PEX is much easier to repair or replace if something goes wrong, speeding repairs and saving you money on what is often the most expensive part of plumbing repairs—hourly labor costs.
PEX Has Some Drawbacks:
The one drawback of PEX pipe is that it’s not appropriate for outdoor use. Though it does resist damage from freezing when installed indoors, it won’t stand up to harsher outdoor temperatures. UV light can also break down the plastic, which can lead to big problems.
PEX Myths Debunked:
Plastic plumbing was popular in home construction in the 1980s, and it had lots of problems. Some holdouts continue to insist that PEX plumbing hasn’t changed much in the past 30 years. This simply isn’t the case. Today’s PEX is made of completely different material and has been proven reliable and low-maintenance for many years. Plumbers all across the country use the new, innovative PEX time and again; its reputation these days is much different than that of plastic pipes in the past.
If you’d like to learn more about PEX plumbing, talk to a Horizon Services plumbing technician. You’ll be able to compare costs, get information about what installation will entail, and determine if PEX is right for your home. Chances are, no matter where you live or how your home’s plumbing is currently set up, installing PEX piping can help your plumbing system work more efficiently and can save you money on expensive plumbing service and maintenance costs.
More Plumbing Information from Horizon Services...
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Beware of Chemical Drain Cleaners!
When You Use a Store-Bought Drain Cleaning Solution, You Could Be Playing With Fire!Dealing with a clogged pipe or slow-moving drain rates pretty high on the “ick” scale for many homeowners. Seeking ways to clear clogs without actually having to touch any undesirable substances, most of us reach for commercial chemical drain cleaning solutions. But while these over-the-counter liquid drain cleaners may be affordable and easy to use, they can ruin your plumbing, cause physical injury to you or your pets, and may actually do more harm than good if used incorrectly.
Most drain or pipe clogs are caused by hair, grease, soap, human waste, or other debris that collects in the plumbing. Store-bought chemical drain cleaners work on clogs by creating heat that dissolves the blockage. However, if the substance gets on porcelain, stainless steel, or aluminum bathroom fixtures it can cause corrosion that will ruin these surfaces. To prevent damage, pour the drain cleaner as close to the drain as you can and never use more than the minimum amount necessary to impact the clog. Most drain cleaning chemicals require that you add water to the cleaner or put the cleaner in standing water; do this slowly and carefully to avoid splashing.
Chemical drain cleaners can also damage PVC, old, or corroded pipes. If you have or think you have this kind of plumbing, an enzymatic drain cleaner is probably a wiser choice to resolve a clogged drain. While enzyme cleaners are sometimes less effective at dissolving clogs, they are much less corrosive to pipes and plumbing. You can also try a pipe snake if you’re nervous about using a drain cleaning solution.
If you have ever used a chemical drain cleaner, you know how noxious the fumes can be. To avoid breathing in these harmful gases, open the windows and doors in your bathroom and stand back as soon as you pour the cleaner into the drain. Never stand close to a clogged drain and watch the cleaner work.
Chemical drain cleaners contain a variety of different chemicals that can react severely if mixed. If you try one brand of cleaner and it doesn’t work, don’t try another kind. You could unintentionally set off a chemical reaction, release toxic fumes into the air, or even cause a sudden eruption of chemicals from your drain. Mixing different kinds of cleaners can also create reactions inside the pipes that will make it much more difficult—and in some cases even impossible—to remove clogs later manually.
Never, ever mix chemical drain cleaners with any product containing bleach. This can create deadly chlorine gas that is toxic to people and animals.
As with many things, you get what you pay for with chemical drain cleaners. An attractive price tag often hides an ineffective product with a low strength chemical mixture or unstable combinations of substances. You may actually spend more when you buy a discount brand product, as you’ll probably have to use many applications of it before you see results. It’s better to choose a mid- to high-priced product with a recognizable name and reputation for quality. An even better idea? Call a reputable drain cleaning contractor like Horizon Services. The drain cleaning pros at Horizon Services can unclog any blocked-up household drain quickly, cleanly, safely and inexpensively.
Related Drain Cleaning Information from Horizon Services...
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
What You Can Do About Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure is certainly an annoyance for many homeowners. Not only can it increase the time it takes to do things like shower, wash dishes, and water outdoor plants, but it also significantly increases how much water is used doing these simple tasks. There are many things that can cause low water pressure, but there are several things you can do to resolve the problem on your own.Most homes have two main water supply valves—the customer valve, located in your water meter box, and the home valve, located on the exterior hose faucet at the front of your house. If either of these valves is even slightly turned away from the “on” position it can drastically decrease water pressure.
Leaking pipes will also decrease water pressure noticeably. It can be difficult to determine if you have a leak, but the best way to check is to look at your water meter. To read your meter, shut off all faucets both inside and outside your home. Read the meter and leave the water off for at least two hours. Go back and read the meter again. If your usage has gone up, there’s a good chance you’ve got a leaking pipe somewhere. Call a licensed plumber right away to prevent extensive damage.
Low water pressure could be the result of something as simple as the time of day you’re using your water. Most of us operate on the same daily schedule—lots of activity early in the morning as we get ready for work and school, less usage throughout the day as we are out of the house, then things pick up again in the evening when everyone returns home. If you notice changes in your water pressure only at certain times of day or specific days of the week, it could mean that you and your neighbors are on a similar schedule. Try varying your water usage by showering at night, running the dishwasher right before bed, or putting in a load of laundry as you leave for work in the morning.
Pressure regulators are small, bell-shaped devices that are usually located just below the front hose connection on your house. Most builders preset these regulators between 45 and 60 psi, and this is usually more than sufficient to maintain water pressure throughout the home. However, sometimes a pressure regulator just wears out or goes bad and needs to be replaced. If you suspect your water pressure troubles lie with the regulator, it’s best to consult a plumber. It’s an easy, inexpensive fix and you’ll save yourself the trouble of causing more damage by trying to repair or replace it yourself.
Older homes or those with galvanized iron pipes are prone to mineral deposits that build up over time. These are unavoidable, but can cause structural damage and make pipes more prone to cracking and leaking. If you know your house is old or has iron pipes, it’s best to consult a professional plumber who can assess the extent of the problem and estimate the cost of repairs.
Related Information...
Monday, November 30, 2009
Winterizing Your Plumbing and Home to Prevent Water Damage
Even in areas like Maryland, Delaware and Southeastern Pennsylvania that have relatively mild winters, sudden snow or ice storms can do major damage to your property if you’re not prepared. Your plumbing system is especially vulnerable to sudden freezes and cold snaps. Fortunately, a little pre-season preparation can save you a lot of plumbing headaches later in the winter. Here are some fast and easy tips that you can do now to prevent potentially thousands of dollars worth of water damage later.First thing you should do is identify all areas in and around your home that are most likely to freeze. This includes parts of your home's plumbing system that are located in an unheated crawl space, a basement or an exterior wall with little insulation. Also check outside pipes and hoses. Look for any signs of leaks or damage. If you see any, fix them now. are the most likely to freeze.
If you have had problems with frozen pipes that have frozen in the past or think a pipe is vulnerable to freezing, insulate them. The easiest and cheapest way to prevent a frozen pipe is to use foam insulation tubes on pipes exposed to cold climates. These insulation tubes are inexpensive and easy to install; just measure your pipes to get the correct size. You can also use heat tape to prevent freezing in pipes that have already been insulated. Heat tape is attached to the pipe and gives off a slight heat when plugged in. It is easy to install and can be found in most hardware stores.
To prevent pipes from freezing never turn off the heat in your home. Broken water pipes can cause thousands of dollars in repairs and water damage clean-up and keeping your heat on, even at a low setting, will keep pipes warm enough to prevent freezing and bursting.
During the winter season, try not to let your plumbing lines be idle for too long; instead, periodically run water through each of your major fixtures. You can also leave a sink faucet on a fast drip to keep water flowing through your pipes, as moving water doesn’t have a chance to pool and freeze. Even a little water flow can significantly warm up pipes or melt/loosen any ice that may be starting to accumulate.
Be sure to drain and shut off any unused supply or drain lines, pipes, toilets, water heaters and fixtures, especially if they will be exposed to cold temperatures.
Drain and shut off water from outdoor hoses, sprinkler systems, and swimming pools. Remove and drain any external hoses; Store them inside the house or garage, when possible, to protect them from the cold.
Besides your plumbing, here are some other potential water damage threats you should also prepare for over the winter:
One of the most important considerations before the first snowflake ever hits the ground is to make sure your home’s roof is in good shape. If you notice any water spots or leaks inside your house have a professional come inspect the structure for problem areas. Even small leaks or gaps can mean big trouble during a major storm or when winter snow starts to melt. Make necessary repairs before cold weather sets in to prevent costly damage.
It’s also important to keep snow and ice off your roof. Your best bet is to hire someone to do this for you, as it can be very dangerous work. You might even consider installing a roof heater system that will melt snow and ice on your roof, preventing it from accumulating. There are also chemicals available at many hardward stores that you can toss onto a snowy or icy roof that can stimulate melting.
Ice dams are a major concern for many homeowners. Ice dams form when attic spaces are insufficiently insulated, making them warm in the winter; this warmth melts snow on your roof. The snow melts and refreezes over and over again, piling on layers of ice until a dam is formed. These can become so heavy that they can rip gutters, soffits and trim away from the side of your house. Make sure your attic is properly insulated—it should be cold in the winter and warm in the summer. Proper attic insulation will also increase your home’s energy efficiency and can save you money on utility bills.
Clean your gutters thoroughly before the first snowfall of the season. Get rid of leaves and debris that can clog gutters and storm drains, which increase the chances of an ice dam forming on your roof.
If you are physically able to do your own snow removal, consider purchasing a snow blower. While expensive, they will make short work of clearing driveways and sidewalks. If you can’t buy a snow removal machine, invest in an ergonomic snow shovel to ease strain on your back and arms. If physical limitations prevent you from shoveling, think about hiring a contractor to plow your driveway or asking a neighbor to clear your sidewalks. Regular snow removal will prevent damage to your driveway and walkways, and will make your home safer for your family and guests.
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