Weatherization And Frozen Pipes

By Author: Leo Nov
Total Articles: 883
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Weatherization, or making a particular structure and its elements resistant to the different kind of weather, is one of the most important things a property owner can do. This process can be all that stands in the way between the home or business and major damage. Part of the weatherization process is to make sure that property is checked for and protected from frozen pipes. This condition can be quite dangerous and cause extensive damage if it is not properly addressed.

The concept of water damage through frozen pipes is rooted in science. As water freezes, it tends to expand. The water molecules begin to crystallize at freezing point to become less compact. As a result, increases in density. When the water found within the pipes of the home freeze during the winter months, the materials of the pipes may not be able to handle the changes in density and thus crack or burst.

When this happens, the resulting water damage can bring about flooding and even mod damage. According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, homeowners file five times as many claims from burst pipes than with fire damage. ...
... It is easy to tell that the damage that results from this situation is not only common, but it is also a financial hassle.

Property owners can greatly benefit from the advice of professionals in order to properly weatherize their homes. There are different kinds of burst pipes depending on where they are located- some are more easily spotted than others. For example, a pipe found in the basement may take a while before its leak is discovered because this area is not frequently visited. The damage can reach the point of mold growth or even structural weakness before it is seen.

Another important area to weatherize is the place where pipes run above the ceiling. If water reaches the ceiling, it may leak through and cause the ceiling to cave in. Even if the damage does not reach this point, there is also a danger of the water dripping down to wreck items such as appliances or documents.
Leo Nov is an editorial staff member of RestorationSOS.com, a leading service provider for fire damage cleanups. To learn more about frozen pipe burst and water damage cleanup, visit RestorationSOS.com