Freezing Temperatures Hazards

11/18/2019 (Permalink)

An example of our water shut off vale tag

Freezing Temperatures and Your Pipes 

Winter has arrived in West Michigan. As Michiganders we begin to prepare our homes for the freezing temperatures. Unprotected pipes are susceptible to cold temperatures because water expands when it goes from liquid to solid form. A gallon of water one frozen will expand to a volume 9% greater than the original gallon. Ice blockage becomes more likely one outside temperature drop to below freezing. A cold wind reaching unprotected pipes quickly remove heat and increases the chances of ice for mission. Water pressure that builds between the ice blockage and a closed faucet can burst the pipe. After a pipe break occurs a water damage begins.

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

Have Questions? Call our Office! 269-686-0664