Freezing Pipes in Ohio

Water is a unique substance. As with most materials, when water cools, its density increases and it settles to the bottom of a container. However, at 32º F, it expands and, therefore, its density decreases! This is why ice floats. This expansion increases the volume of water by about 11% and creates tremendous pressure on its container (between 50,000 and 114,000 psi). Such containers include metal and plastic pipes. No matter the strength of a material, expanding water will cause it to break.

Pipes are especially vulnerable to damage caused by expanding water. Water lines that freeze are usually those directly exposed to severe cold, such as outdoor hose bibs, swimming pool supply lines, or water sprinkler lines. In addition, pipes in unheated interior areas such as basements, crawl spaces, attics, garages, and kitchen cabinets, and those that run against exterior walls with little or no insulation are also susceptible to freezing.

A number of variables contribute to freeze damage: The type of building construction; The quality and quantity of insulation; The decline in temperature; The direction and force of wind; and other weather-related conditions are all contributing factors.

Buildings that are poorly designed and do not withstand severe weather sufficiently can contribute to their own damage. The type and age of the plumbing system is also a factor. Rust or corrosion weakens pipes, making leaks more likely to occur. When freeze-expansion occurs, corroded pipes will often split open. When thawing begins or when the water is turned back on, damage is typically the result.

During the renovation of older homes, blown-in or foam insulation is sometimes added to wall cavities between interior and exterior wall surfaces and between studs. This process may actually insulate heat away from pipes adjacent to the exterior wall surfaces, making them more susceptible to freezing.

Since most modern plumbing lines are inside walls hidden from sight, a freeze-caused leak is usually discovered only after water has damaged floors, carpet, walls, or ceilings. Occasionally, an occupant hears the sound of spraying water, but by then it may be too late. The leak has already caused some degree of damage.

Regardless of the circumstances — Water damage caused by frozen pipes, Fire & Smoke damage, Biohazard remediation or Mold remediation — call PuroClean Professional Servies, the Paramedics of Property Damage

Call 866-944-PURO (7876) for any questions, comments, or concerns.

www.PuroCleanProServices.com

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