Austin Fire and Flood

Cold weather in Texas can cause water damage from burst pipes, but businesses and homeowners can prepare in many ways. These five tips can help avoid a costly disaster and are good ways to protect the home. However, Texas residents may still need a professional restoration company when dealing with seasonal hazards and restoration.

1. Keep Temperatures Above 55 Degrees Fahrenheit

People flock to warmer climates during cold weather conditions for extended periods, but their homes are not always ready for the winter. Indoor temperatures should always stay above 55 degrees.

Homeowners should check their thermostat settings or ask neighbors to turn the heat on during dramatic temperature drops. Leaving cabinet doors in the bathroom and kitchen can also prevent burst pipes by spreading warm air to these areas.

2. Check Insurance Policies

Home and business owners should learn about their property insurance policies before a cold snap and determine whether they have coverage for water damage. Insurance companies are unlikely to cover water damage if pipes break due to neglect and lack of maintenance, so invest in routine plumbing repairs.

3. Maintain an Ideal Water Pressure

Texas's preferred seasonal hazards and restoration company, Austin Fire and Flood, advises keeping water pressure within the ideal range of 30 to 50 psi. Water pressure above 60 psi requires an immediate plumbing repair to lower it and prevent a burst pipe.

Pipes with too much pressure cannot hold water for long. Therefore, examining the water gauge before a cold snap is essential. Extreme conditions can also break outdoor garden hoses, so removing and storing them before winter is another way to combat seasonal hazards.

4. Run Faucets with a Small Stream of Water

Frozen pipes can break and cause water damage, but home or business owners can let water slow drip as a preventative measure. At least one faucet should remain on so pipes aren't stagnant and susceptible to freezing. This technique may seem like a waste of money, but it is cheaper than cleaning up extensive water damage or a flooded building.

5. Fix Potential "Water Hammer" Issues

The pipes should not rattle or bang when homeowners turn on the water. When a faucet is first turned on, this pounding noise is called a "water hammer," and the increased water pressure can damage pipes. When the weather gets colder, pipes can weaken, move, and burst over time. Calling a plumber can fix the water hammer, prevent a future disaster, and secure the system.

Reliable Water Damage Restoration from Austin Fire and Flood

Water damage cleanup is simple with Austin Fire and Flood's friendly and experienced team and is always at an upfront and affordable price. Austin Fire and Flood is Texas's premier fire and water damage restoration business, helping residents deal with seasonal hazards and restoration. These IICRC-certified technicians handle cleanup and resolution after a storm or burst pipe from a cold snap.

Texas's professional restoration company proudly serves Windsor Hills, Austin, TX, and many other areas throughout the state. Excellent customer service and 24/7 availability are at the heart of the business. Call (512) 912-6814 to schedule an Austin Fire and Flood appointment for water damage repair.