With the Festive Season only around the corner, are we ready for the Winter Chill…?

As severe weather warnings for winter 2011/2012 have been advised following one of the coldest winters experienced in Britain for more than 45 years, the harsh conditions are once again forecast for record breaking snowfall and freezing temperatures during December, January and February.

We have all experienced the major disruption and damage caused in these conditions.  We need to be better prepared!  These things are so obvious once you set them down, but here are, we hope, some useful reminders:-

Bursting pipes occur when frozen water causes a pressure buildup between the ice blockage and the closed tap. Pipes in loft spaces and outside walls are particularly vulnerable to extreme cold. To prevent water in your pipes from freezing:

• Check where your stop taps are to isolate your water supply and that they work;
• Insulate exposed water pipes with felt, pipe wrap or other suitable insulating material and cover any outside pipe or fitting with a waterproof material;
• Make sure your cold water tank is insulated;
• Leave central heating on a frost-protect setting overnight;
• If you are planning on leaving your home or office unattended for long periods, turn off the water supply, outside taps and exposed pipes.
• Fit exposed pipes with insulation sleeves or wrapping to slow heat transfer.
• Seal cracks and holes in outside walls and foundations near water pipes.
• Keep doors open to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.

Heavy snow:

1. Watch for snow accumulation on the downwind side of a higher-level roof, where blowing snow will collect. For safe removal that won't endanger you or damage your roof, you could consult a roofing contractor for a referral.
2. Remove snow from stairwells, window wells and all walls. Melting snow can lead to water damage and moisture intrusion.
3. Keep your roof space well ventilated to maintain a temperature close to that of the outdoors to minimize the risk of ice dams forming. A warm loft space melts snow on the roof, causing water to run down and refreeze at the roof's edge, where it's much cooler.

If ice builds up and blocks water from draining, water is forced under the roof covering and into your loft or down the inside walls of your house.

Share Article