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How do you stop water pipes from bursting?

Published February 11, 2019

It may be February already, but the winter is due to stick around for a while. With another bout of cold weather on the way, some experts are predicting that we could be facing our coldest winter yet – and it’s not good news for our homes.

With the colder weather going nowhere soon, it’s time to start protecting your home from the elements if you haven’t already. A burst water pipe can have a devastating effect on your family’s home and, although it isn’t completely preventable, there are measures you can take to massively reduce your chances of having a burst water pipe on your hands.

Reduce your risk of a burst water pipe today and save yourself both the damage and the stress of having to make a claim on your home insurance.

How to insulate water pipes

Insulating your water pipes is one of the easiest steps you can take to help prevent your water pipes from bursting in the winter. As the weather gets colder, the added insulation will help stop the water inside the pipes from freezing and, in turn, stop a burst pipe caused by the colder weather.

To minimise your risk of a burst water pipe, you’ll want to make sure both your pipes and your water tank are well insulated. Be sure to double check any pipes in colder rooms and areas, such as the attic, basement and outdoor areas such as garages, as these are the ones most prone to bursting. Make sure the entire pipe is covered in insulation, leaving no gaps at the bends, fittings or valves.

What is the best insulation for water pipes?

You can use a number of materials to insulate your pipes, but your best option is to use one designed specifically for the job.

You can find a polyethylene pipe lagging material at nearly any DIY or home store. This flexible plastic feels like sturdy foam and is the most common type of water pipe insulation because it can be used on both hot and cold pipes. It usually comes with a slit down the middle so you can slide it onto the pipes – the natural curve means it will grip onto them and sit comfortably around the pipes.

What to do if a water pipe bursts

Even with insulation, a burst water pipe can still happen. If you noticed a burst pipe or leak, turn off the water supply at the main stopcock instantly. Turn off your central heating and open your taps to drain the system.

Most home insurance policies will cover a burst water pipe (sometimes it is referred to as an “escape of water insurance”). Once you have secured the property from any potential hazards, check your insurance policy to see what you are covered for and contact your insurer to let them know that you need to make a claim. Your insurance company should advise you on what to do from here. It is not uncommon, however, for homeowners to still have outstanding questions after they speak to their insurer. If you find you do, you are welcome to call us for advice, we are available 7 days a week.

Morgan Clark’s Loss Assessors are here to help you through every step of the insurance claims process. From liaising with your insurance company to helping you get the compensation you are entitled to, our experienced team has helped many other homeowners with their burst water pipe claims. Get in touch to find out more.

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