The Effects of the Freezing-Thawing Cycle on Water Lines

Water lines are made of various materials, including plastic, copper, and steel. The freezing-thawing cycle, however, can drastically change a water line’s fabric. Full Excavating, the leading name for quality water line repair in Tacoma, WA, offers solutions to prevent water line damage from the freezing-thawing process.

Here, we will discuss the effects of the freezing-thawing cycle on water lines.

Pressure Can Lead to Frozen Pipes Bursting

Ice causes stress on the lines and pipe fitting, which can eventually cause them to burst and become damaged leading to a water line replacement. When a pipe bursts, it not only results in a significant water leak in your home but also causes damage to any surrounding structure, such as interior ceilings, floors, walls, and windows.

Corrosion of the Water Line

The freezing-thawing cycle can lead to corrosion, potentially leading to a damaged water line. Decay on any metal pipe is caused by a reaction between chemicals in the water line and material in the pipe. When metals react chemically with water, a layer of rust is formed, which weakens and, at times, completely disintegrates the pipe.

Damage to Fixtures and Appliances

If exposed to freezing temperatures, faucets can freeze and break, causing severe leaks in your fixture and appliance. Water line installation in high elevations must be carefully evaluated to ensure that lines should not freeze and break.

Cost of Replacement

The initial installation of a water line is a fraction of the cost of replacing it due to the damage caused by freezing. In addition to the cost of water line services replacement, there is a substantial amount of lost water (usually several hundred gallons) and damage to the home.

The freezing-thawing cycle can severely damage water lines. If water is allowed to stay in the bars during freezing temperatures, ice will form, which results in stress on the lines and pipe fitting, eventually causing ruptures. Full Excavating provides reliable water line services to help keep your entire plumbing system in tip-top shape.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment!