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WHY IT'S IMPORTANT TO INSULATE ALL EXPOSED PIPES OR FACE A POSSIBLE SPLIT AND MAJOR LEAKS WHEN IT THAWS?

Why it's important to insulate all exposed pipes or face a possible split and major leaks when it thaws?

During winter freezing temperatures can put your property’s water pipes at risk, so taking the time to insulate exposed pipes could reduce costly repair bills in the future.

During winter freezing temperatures can put your property’s water pipes at risk, so taking the time to insulate exposed pipes could reduce costly repair bills in the future.

 

Why do water pipes split? 

Pipes split when the water within them freezes and expands. Pipes are not equipped to deal with the expansion causing cracks to form, then when temperatures increase the water thaws and escapes. It is surprising how, even after just a few hours, many thousands of litres can have leaked out of these cracked pipes significantly damaging your property.

 

Which pipes are most at risk in freezing temperatures? 

  • Exterior pipework

Pipework on the outside of the property is the most exposed to the elements and therefore is at the most risk of freezing. An external leak can be the cause of internal damp and mould, saturated foundations and water pooling along external walls all of which require significant repair works to correct. 

  • Internal pipes on an exterior wall

Pipework on the internal side of an exterior wall may be colder than other pipes within the property and is therefore also at risk of freezing. Keeping your property warm will counteract the chill from the exterior wall. A leak here could result in damaged fixtures and fittings in your home such as furniture, floorings and possibly even electrics. 

  • Pipework in unheated rooms

Pipework in unheated areas of the home such as in an attic or garage are at risk from freezing and could be undetected for some time resulting in costly repair bills. 

  • Pipework in internal cupboards

Pipework in internal cupboards, for example in a bathroom or kitchen, are also liable to risk as although they are in a heated room the cupboards that they are within act as a barrier to the warm air without. Once again protecting these pipes from freezing is an important element in ensuring the prevention of water damage to your property. 

All the pipes we’ve mentioned need protecting during winter and the most ideal way to achieve this is by insulating them.

 

How do you insulate pipes? 

Insulating your property’s pipework is the best way to protect your water pipes during the winter months. Pipe insulation or pipe lagging as it is often called is a foam tubing that fits around the pipe. It is easy to fit, inexpensive and available from most DIY stores. It can be used on copper and plastic, hot and cold pipes and is available in various diameters depending on the level of protection required. Along with covering straight pipes it is also available to fit bends and corners ensuring all sections are protected.

 

Need some expert advice? 

If you require some expert advice around protecting your water pipes from freezing temperatures or repairing existing water damage contact specialists Westone Housing on 01733 320500 or visit www.westone.uk.com

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