Winter regularly damages plumbing across the US, with many homes failing to take preventative measures. For example, frozen pipes can burst, causing costly water damage.
Catching leaks early and taking proactive measures can save you thousands in repairs. Look for signs like damp spots on walls or ceilings, unexplained increases in water bills, or the sound of running water when no taps are on.
Insulate pipes in unheated areas like attics and crawl spaces. Keep your home heated, even when you're away. Let faucets drip during extreme cold to prevent freezing. These simple actions can help you avoid major headaches and expenses from winter plumbing issues.
It’s important to learn the signs of possible plumbing issues so they can be addressed early.
Check walls, ceilings, and floors for water stains or discoloration as these marks often point to hidden leaks, as can peeling paint or wallpaper which can happen when moisture seeps through walls. Mold or mildew growth is another red flag so if you see fuzzy patches or smell a musty odor, you might have a hidden leak.
Pay special attention to damp spots on carpets or warped wooden floors and don't forget to inspect areas under sinks and around toilets. A puddle or constant dampness could mean a leaky pipe or fixture.
Weak water flow from faucets or showerheads can signal plumbing issues and might mean a pipe has frozen or burst somewhere in your system. Turn on multiple taps at once and if the pressure drops noticeably, you could have a bigger problem. Listen for whistling or banging sounds in your pipes when the water is running which could also signal damaged pipes.
You can also check your water meter when no one is using water and if it's still moving, you likely have a leak somewhere.
Slab leaks happen when pipes under your home's foundation break. They're tricky to spot but can cause major damage. The best way to identify a slab leak is to watch for unexplained warm spots on your floor which could mean hot water is leaking below. Cracks in your walls or floors might also point to a slab leak.
Keep an eye on your water bill too, as a sudden spike could mean water is escaping from somewhere. If you hear running water when everything is off, it might be coming from under your home. Slab leaks can lead to serious structural damage if left unchecked, weakening your foundation and potentially creating sinkholes.
Cold weather can cause pipes to freeze and burst and taking steps to protect your plumbing is key to avoiding costly water damage.
Insulating your pipes is crucial for preventing freezes and you should focus on pipes in unheated areas like basements and attics. Use foam pipe sleeves or wrap pipes with insulation tape, covering the entire length of the exposed pipe. Pipes in exterior walls also need to be insulated. For extra protection, consider heat tape or heating cables which generate warmth to keep pipes from freezing.
Outdoor spigots also need protection as they can be very vulnerable to freezing temperatures. To protect them, remove attached hoses and use insulated covers to shield them from cold air.
Inspect visible pipes for signs of wear, corrosion, or small leaks, looking for moisture, discoloration, or bulging. Also, on very cold nights, let faucets drip slightly as moving water helps prevent freezing. You should also open cabinet doors to allow warm air to reach pipes located under sinks.
Keep your home heated to at least 55°F throughout winter, even when you're away as this maintains a safe temperature for your plumbing system. If you're leaving for an extended period, consider shutting off your main water valve as this limits potential damage if a pipe does burst while you're gone.
Regular professional inspections can catch leaks early and prevent costly water damage. Advanced detection methods help pinpoint hidden problems quickly.
For peace of mind, have a professional plumber inspect your system yearly as they can spot potential issues and offer tailored advice for your home's unique needs. These experts have the tools and knowledge to check pipes, fittings, and fixtures for signs of wear or damage.
Professional inspections can save you money in the long run as early leak detection prevents water waste and structural damage. Plumbers can also suggest upgrades to improve your system's efficiency.
Professional plumbers use high-tech tools to find hidden leaks. These methods are quick and accurate, causing minimal disruption to your home.
Here are some common tools used by experts:
Quick action is key when dealing with water damage and fast remediation is crucial to help tackle mold growth and handle major flooding to protect your home and belongings.
Mold can spread fast after water damage and you need to act quickly to stop it:
However, for large mold problems, you’ll need to call a professional. They have special equipment to safely remove mold which can pose health issues if not properly treated.
When facing major flooding:
Don't enter flooded areas if the water is deep or fast-moving and call experts for sewage backups or contaminated water as they can safely clean and disinfect your home.
Remember to update your insurance agent about any damage as they’ll guide you through the claims process and help you find trusted water damage repair services.
