Temperatures can drop below freezing as early as October in Virginia. This can result in frozen pipes when temperatures remain below freezing for an extended period.
Last year’s winter weather preparedness article focused on driving to reduce automobile incidents. This year we focus on protecting property by discussing the impact of freezing temperatures on your pipes.
Over the last five years, VRSA received 13 claims resulting from frozen pipes, incurring more than $650,000 in property damage.
These frozen pipes contribute to a build-up of pressure, resulting in pipe failure at their weakest point, leading to water damage. Pipes in crawl spaces, exterior walls, and rooms without adequate heating or insulation are most at risk.
The good news is these types of losses are preventable by following a few simple tips.
- Insulation Sleeves: Insulate your exposed pipes to keep their temperature well above the freezing point. Insulation sleeves are usually made of foam, available at most building supplies stores, easy to install, and inexpensive ways to keep pipes warmer longer. Pipes in crawl spaces and basements are more susceptible to freezing, so ensure these are well-insulated before temperatures fall.
- Seal your space: While a small crack in a wall may not seem like a big deal, several together can let a lot of cold air in. Not only is this costly in terms of your entity’s heating bill, but in the cost to repair potentially burst pipes and water damage. Seal cracks around windows, doors, and sill plates. Consider using weather stripping or draft stoppers to retain additional heat.
- Winterize faucets and hoses: Winterize your outdoor faucets and hoses the easy way – by turning them off and draining any remaining water. Hoses and pipes without water can’t freeze or burst.
- Open interior faucets: When a particularly cold snap is heading your way, turn on the faucet handle. Opening your faucets enough for a small flow of water makes the pipes less likely to freeze and relieves existing pressure if freezing should occur.
VRSA has prepared a guide, available on our website, for members interested in preparing now for the upcoming winter weather. The guide includes checklists, tips, sample policies, and more.
This guide is designed to help members prevent and reduce losses and is offered as part of VRSA’s commitment to protecting members and their employees, so they can effectively serve their communities.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss winter weather preparedness, reach out to your risk services consultant.