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Frozen pipes can burst and cause water damage in commercial buildings and homes even after an extreme cold snap ends, according to a claims expert from Selective.
“Many people think that pipes only burst when temperatures are very low,” noted Matt Caton, VP-Property Claims for Selective, which insures commercial and personal risks. “But in fact, pipes can burst even after the temperature warms up a bit.”
Pipes for sprinkler systems and water supply lines are at risk when:
Pipes that burst typically do so between the spot where water freezes in the pipe and a closed faucet or other plumbing connection.
But often water doesn’t burst from a split pipe until the cold temperatures ease, noted Caton of Selective. “Property owners/managers and homeowners might think the danger is past when temperatures warm up. But what can happen is that the thawing of a pipe restarts the flow of water, which goes through the broken pipe and spills throughout a building.
“And those incidents can seem to follow ‘Murphy’s Law.’ It seems like they happen when no one is nearby or in the building. It’s amazing how much water can spread on a floor or go through a ceiling in a matter of minutes,” Caton pointed out.
Preventive measures to keep pipes clear include:
“Many people think that pipes only burst when temperatures are very low,” noted Matt Caton, VP-Property Claims for Selective, which insures commercial and personal risks. “But in fact, pipes can burst even after the temperature warms up a bit.”
Pipes for sprinkler systems and water supply lines are at risk when:
- Cold infiltrates buildings during extended periods of cold weather and/or extreme cold temperatures.
- Water freezes in sprinkler system or water supply pipes.
- As a result, pipes can split or crack – which allows water to gush out and damage ceilings, walls and floors.
Pipes that burst typically do so between the spot where water freezes in the pipe and a closed faucet or other plumbing connection.
But often water doesn’t burst from a split pipe until the cold temperatures ease, noted Caton of Selective. “Property owners/managers and homeowners might think the danger is past when temperatures warm up. But what can happen is that the thawing of a pipe restarts the flow of water, which goes through the broken pipe and spills throughout a building.
“And those incidents can seem to follow ‘Murphy’s Law.’ It seems like they happen when no one is nearby or in the building. It’s amazing how much water can spread on a floor or go through a ceiling in a matter of minutes,” Caton pointed out.
Preventive measures to keep pipes clear include:
- Insulate pipes or use heat tape.
- Seal wall openings for water lines and electrical wires.
- Let faucets drip slightly during extreme cold to prevent water from staying in pipes.
- Keep the building or home warm enough to prevent freezing.
Check out Selective's Winter Preparation guides for more tips on preparing your home, vehicle or business for winter weather:
