Winter Home Maintenance Tips for Preventing Frozen Pipes in Basements
Few winter emergencies are as immediately damaging and costly as a burst pipe. While pipes everywhere in the home are vulnerable to freezing, those running through unheated or poorly insulated spaces, like basements, crawl spaces, and exterior walls, are particularly at risk. Implementing effective winter home maintenance tips for preventing frozen pipes in basements is essential for protecting your property and avoiding thousands of dollars in water damage repairs.
🌡️ Insulating the Vulnerable Zone
Preventing heat loss around your pipes is the first line of defense against freezing.
- Insulate Exposed Pipes: Pipes running along exterior walls, near basement windows, or close to the main sill plate are prime targets. Use foam pipe insulation (often called pipe sleeves or pipe wrap) which is inexpensive and easy to install. Cover every exposed inch of pipe you can access.
- Seal Air Leaks: Drafts from the outside are the primary cause of sudden