Why Mild Winters Still Require Plumbing Prep: Key Steps to Protect Your Pipes

The winter months often pose a real threat to plumbing pipes, as tanking temperatures can lead to frozen and burst pipes. Even mild winters can cause damage, especially if you’re not prepared. A little prep work can help keep your pipes in good shape when the winter arrives.

Here are a few simple ways to keep pipes from freezing, even in the coldest of winters. Texas Rooter is a licensed, insured, and bonded plumbing company providing a wide range of services, including pipe repair and replacement. When you’re looking for a licensed plumber to fix your pipes, look no further than Texas Rooter.

Insulate Exposed Pipes

Plumbing pipes routed through unheated areas like attics and basements are more likely to freeze when the temperatures plummet. Consider insulating the pipes with rubber or fiberglass sleeves to decrease the chances of freezing. You can buy inexpensive insulation materials from local home improvement stores and fit them yourself for free. However, if you’re not confident in your DIY skills, seek professional assistance from a licensed and insured plumber.

Pipe insulation not only protects exposed pipes from frigid temperatures, but it also prolongs their lifespan. Fluctuating temperatures can cause pipes to expand and contract, thereby reducing their overall lifespan. Therefore, insulating exposed pipes ensures you have a constant flow of water and saves you money in the long run.

Seal Gaps Around Penetration Holes

Even during mild winters, cold air can seep into your home through gaps around penetration holes where pipes enter walls or floors. This exposure increases the risk of pipes freezing or cracking when temperatures drop. Make sure you seal these gaps with caulk or spray foam to prevent drafts and keep your plumbing system protected. Sealing up cracks and gaps safeguards your pipes and improves your home’s energy efficiency, saving money on heating costs while avoiding potential plumbing disasters.

Replace Failing Pipes

Older or damaged pipes are especially vulnerable, even in mild winters. Fluctuating temperatures can weaken failing pipes and make them more prone to leaks or bursts. If you notice signs like corrosion, cracks, or persistent leaks, replacing these pipes before winter is crucial. Call a trusted plumbing service specializing in pipe replacement to install new pipes. Upgrading to more durable materials ensures your plumbing can handle temperature changes and reduces the chances of emergency repairs. Proactive replacements keep your system reliable and give you peace of mind during colder months.

Regular Plumbing Inspections

Regular plumbing inspections are essential, even when winters aren’t severe. Professional assessments can identify hidden issues like weak joints, minor leaks, or areas prone to freezing. Addressing these problems early helps prevent costly repairs down the line. An inspection also ensures your plumbing system is properly insulated and ready to handle temperature changes. Our plumbers recommend you stay proactive to maintain a trouble-free system and avoid unexpected disruptions during the winter season. Get in touch with Texas Rooter for professional plumbing inspections.

Call Texas Rooter for All of Your Plumbing Needs

Looking for reliable plumbing repair service? Trust the team at Texas Rooter to do a flawless job. Our skilled plumbers in Allen, TX can help you with everything from pipe insulation to pipe replacement, leak detection, main water line replacement, and more. Contact Texas Rooter today to schedule a convenient appointment.