Water Pipes In Attic Freezing

In many areas of the country where homes are built on a slab foundation water supply lines are routinely routed through the attic space.

Water pipes in attic freezing.

When water freezes in your pipes whether due to quick drops in outside temperatures poor insulation or the thermostat set too low its volume expands and puts pressure on the pipe from inside. Because water always flows downward freezing attic pipes that rupture are especially damaging to the living spaces below. The best way to keep your pipes from freezing is to purchase specifically designed pipe insulation. Surprisingly both hot and cold pipes can be at risk.

When running pipes from a slab to an attic use an inside wall. For severe climes opt for wrapping problem pipes with thermostatically controlled heat tape from 50 to 200 depending on length which will turn on at. If you look up in your attic and find exposed pipes you really need to take immediate action. Insulate any attic pipes that transfer water.

This can cause a burst pipe but even a small crack or two can be the start of some devastating and expensive water and. For a variety of reasons from pipe damage under a slab to home design constraints water pipes may need to be run or rerouted through a home s attic. Pipe insulation is often remarkably inexpensive and it is a small investment compared to the repair costs of a burst water pipe. Running pex in an attic.

Placing water pipes in outside walls greatly increases the risk of frozen and burst pipes in cold climates. Often inexpensive foam pipe insulation is enough for moderately cold climates. The cost will run about 50 70 per foot. As winter rolls in it s vital that you know how to prevent pipes from freezing.

Look to spend about 75 to 150 to insulate pipe in the attic of a 2 bath home. It s smart to insulate water supply piping exposed to freezing temp. If you notice plumbing pipes that are fully exposed to the elements understand that you are playing a game of water damage russian roulette and eventually you will lose. But plumbing pipes in an unheated area such as an attic crawl space and garage are at risk of freezing.