When it freezes

3/1/2018 (Permalink)

In Houston, Texas in last few months, we have had unusual weather. One day its gorgeous, then two days later its below freezing. Things begin to happen when weather patterns like this happens. Things such as wood expanding as the humidity decreases, moisture decreases, and the wood shrinks. This relationship is referred to as Equilibrium Moisture Content or (EMC), and can be accurately predicted. 

These kind of situations do occur and happen regularly. Another thing that happens is pipes bursting. The excess water in the pipes freezes and expanding causing the pipe, most of the time to bust open and cause water to spread. It can happen inside the dwelling and outside as well. These job types are a regular for us at SERVPRO of Katy/Cypress and SERVPRO of Champions/1960.

Some tips we give out can decrease your chances of this happening to you. To keep outdoor plumbing fixtures from freezing, disconnect and store any garden hoses. Then, shut off the water to your outdoor faucets, drain the lines, and insulate the hose bibs. We also ask our community to do such things as a precaution when you know the temperature is expected to drop below 32 degrees. Its like the old motto, "always protect the three P's. Pets, Pipes, and Plants."