Beware Frozen Pipes!

Everyone in the triangle knows that we’ve had a surprisingly mild winter so far this year, but the cold weather might be creeping up on us sooner than we hope. When it does, there are certain precautions you should take in order to prevent serious damage to your home.

When the weather turns, and things get cold, water will start to freeze. When water freezes, it expands, and any pipes or plumbing that have water trapped inside may not be able to handle the pressure. If a pipe gives way to the expanding ice within, you may not know it right away, but the minute that ice begins to melt, you’re going to have a flood on your hands in no time.

To prevent burst pipes when the mercury drops, here are a few tips. If you’re planning on leaving for a few days, and don’t want to come home to icicles in your bathroom, don’t turn the heat all the way down. Make sure you set your thermostat no lower than 65 degrees, which will radiate through your walls and floors and keep your pipes above freezing temperature. Leaving under sink cabinets open helps with this, as well

For more exposed fixtures, like in basements, garages, or outdoor spigots, you may want to open them just enough to drip slowly. This will help to alleviate any pressure build up and allow the water to keep moving, rather than sit still and freeze solid.

It’s too late! My pipes already froze!

If you already have a leak from burst pipes, call our emergency hotline immediately at 919-467-1991. We can help stop the water from causing more damage, and begin the process of repairing the damage that’s already been done. We’re certified, trained professionals, and we can work with you and your insurance company to take care of the mess so you don’t have to.