Already missing those summerlike autumn days? We are too.
Although it seemed like it might never get colder in the Greater Richmond area, temperatures are finally dropping. With the changing weather comes potential complications in plumbing systems. Unfortunately, our homes are vulnerable to damage if we don’t prep our pipes for the winter months.
One area of your house that is dangerous to overlook is the crawl space. During the changing seasons, crawl spaces can get damp and moldy as moisture builds up under houses. If being damp and moldy isn’t bad enough, these areas can also get so chilly that your pipes freeze.
Having your pipes freeze is one of the most detrimental things that can happen to your home, because frozen pipes will often crack and cause a flood. And of course a flood can lead to tens of thousands of dollars of damage.
To prevent your crawl spaces from getting too cold, we have several suggestions:
Get your crawl spaces inspected
Calling a professional to inspect your crawl space can save you a lot of trouble and money in the long run. We can assess any mold, clean out the area, and install insulation so your pipes won’t freeze.
Don’t let that faucet leak
As explained in a previous blog with tips to avoiding frozen pipes, “Repairing plumbing leaks when you first notice them is the best time to repair them. Waiting to repair them can lead to bigger problems down the road. Check all of the faucets in your kitchen, bathrooms and utility room for puddles and drips.”
Leaking water will also build up in areas of the pipes that are cold and allow those sections to crack under the pressure of frozen water.
Insulate your pipes with foam tubes
Thankfully, there’s a simple way to insulate them yourself so you don’t have to worry about a pipe bursting while you’re visiting relatives during the holidays.
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Buy foam tubes from your nearest hardware store
- Cut the foam tube to match the length of the pipe
- After pulling it open, wrap it around the pipe
- Use duct tape to keep the foam in place if it doesn’t have adhesive edges
If you don’t want to do this yourself, give us a call and we’ll be there in no time to get it done for you.
Just remember that as you prep your house for the winter months, don’t neglect the crawl spaces. We know that the last thing you want for Christmas is a flooded basement.