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SERVPROSERVPRO of Fernandina Beach/Jacksonville Northeast
Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration™
(904) 729-2401

Fernandina Beach Pipe Burst - Flood Removal

1/11/2016 (Permalink)

Fernandina Beach FL: House flood resulting from a burst water pipe during freezing temperatures.

     It's that time a year again and if you live in an area with cold winters there is a risk of plumbing pipes freezing during cold weather.

     If the temperature inside a house gets below 32 degrees Fahrenheit it's likely the water supply pipes and the drain traps will freeze. When water freezes it expands 9% and if there is no room for expansion it is possibel that the pipe will develop a crack. When the ice thaws the pipe will leak, and in the supply system this leak could occur anywhere.

     There is a reason why many professionals recommend leaving a trickle of water flowing through home faucets during cold weather. If water is allowed to remain still in a pipe exposed to the cold air, the water may freeze solid and the pipe may burst. If the water continues to flow, even in a trickle, it won't have the opportunity to freeze and the pipes should survive until the air temperature warms above freezing.

Preventing Frozen Pipes

     Remember the three central causes of frozen pipes? Quick drops in temperature, poor insulation, and thermostats set too low. You can prepare by protecting your home during the warmer months. Here’s how:

  • Insulate pipes in your home's crawl spaces and attic, even if you live in a climate where freezing is uncommon. Exposed pipes are most susceptible to freezing. Remember: The more insulation you use, the better protected your pipes will be.
  • Seal leaks that allow cold air inside near where pipes are located. Look for air leaks around electrical wiring, dryer vents, and pipes, and use caulk or insulation to keep the cold out. With severe cold, even a tiny opening can let in enough cold air to cause a pipe to freeze.
  • Before winter hits, disconnect garden hoses and, if possible, use an indoor valve to shut off and drain water from pipes leading to outside faucets. This reduces the chance of freezing in the short span of pipe just inside the house.

    •      For more information about how to prevent frozen pipes check out this information from The American Red Cross.

         Already have a burst pipe? Please visit SERVPRO's Water Restoration Process or call (904) 729-2401

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