Avoiding freezing pipes during the colder months

A frequent claim against home owners' Wisconsin home insurance — particularly during the colder months — is that for damage caused by freezing pipes. A buildup in water pressure between the faucet and blockage caused by the ice can often cause damage. Water pipes especially vulnerable to cracking include those situated near the outside of the house or in colder area of the house such as a cupboard or attic.

However by taking a few steps, you may reduce your risk of pipe damage through cracking in cold weather.

Wrap the pipes with insulating material
Keeping the exposed water pipes well wrapped in insulating material, such as foam, will help reduce the heat transfer and may prevent cracking due to freezing. Where accessible, tape insulation onto pipes and block holes and gaps which let in cold air.

Increase access to warmer temperatures
Should water pipes be located in a cool cupboard, open the door to allow heating from the house to warm up the pipes. 

Open the faucets
Running your faucets may help reduce the chances of your pipes busting, mainly by reducing the pressure that builds up between the faucet and the blocked part of the pipe due to ice. 

When you suspect that there has been a break in your water pipes due to freezing, shut down the mains as soon as possible to prevent any lasting damage and contact your local plumber. Early attention will help reduce the chances that you'll have a problem and need to make a claim against your Wisconsin home insurance.

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