Insulating Pipes
When pipes freeze, they can cause major water damage. One way to prevent pipes from freezing during a cold snap is to insulate them. Here are some tips to follow when insulating the different plumbing found in a home:
Exposed Plumbing
Depending on where the exposed plumbing is located, it could be more at risk for freezing. Generally, when it comes to exposed pipes in a basement, there’s no need to insulate because that part of the home is usually heated with the furnace. Areas homeowners should worry more about when it comes to exposed plumbing are the attic, crawl space and garage. Simple foam pipe insulation should be enough to keep the exposed pipes from freezing.
Unexposed Pipes
Some walls aren’t insulated well enough to keep the cold completely out. Homes that have experienced frozen pipes inside of walls might need to consider opening up the wall and adding more or upgrading the insulation inside. When pipes freeze within walls the home’s structure can suffer from water damage, mold, and excess moisture.
Insulation is a fairly inexpensive way to protect the home from freezing pipes and avoid any water damage in the spring. It requires some measuring and cutting, but the hassle will be worth it.
For those who go on a vacation this winter, here are a few extra tips:
- Keep the thermostat at a minimum of 55 degrees
- Shut off the main water supply
- Drain the system by opening the faucets and flushing the toilets
Shutting off the water supply and draining the system isn’t necessary for short vacations, but it is for people who plan to be gone for months at a time.
Homeowners who are concerned their pipes might be frozen should call All Star Plumbing and Restoration this winter. They will come out and inspect the pipes and repair any damage.
Adding a Sink to the Kitchen Island - Kitchen Remodels
Having an island in the kitchen is a great way to get extra space, but it doesn’t have to just be an extra counter or spot for a stovetop. When remodeling the kitchen and installing an island, consider moving the kitchen sink from its original location to the island.
Depending on how the kitchen is used, it can be a very advantageous remodeling move. Here are some reasons why:
- Functionality
Having a sink on the kitchen island means having a centralized food prep area. This makes it easier to get food from the fridge to the sink for prepping, and then to the stove or oven.
- Entertaining
Generally, when someone is using the sink, their back is turned to anyone else in the kitchen or dining area. With the sink on the kitchen island, it allows them to entertain those sitting at the island and prep food or clean up at the same time.
- More Space
Kitchen sinks can take up quite a bit of room depending on their style. By installing the sink on the island instead, it allows for more counter space in other areas. For those who have a lot of kitchen gadgets and appliances taking up counter space, this is definitely a smart move.
Sometimes the ability to move the sink around depends on the existing plumbing. Most of the time plumbing can be moved to accommodate remodeling plans. When planning a kitchen remodel, keep All Star Plumbing and Restoration in mind. We can assist with planning around the existing plumbing, or help to move it so a sink on the kitchen island is possible.
Tips for Entertaining in a Small Kitchen
With the holidays near, some homeowners might be trying to figure out how to entertain guests with a small kitchen. It can be difficult to prep, cook, and clean a multi-course meal for guests in a small kitchen, but it can be done. Just follow these tips:
1. Preparation
If some foods can be prepared ahead of time, do it. In a small kitchen there isn’t room to cook multiple dishes at once, so make-ahead dishes can be a lifesaver. Examples of this are desserts and appetizers. Also create a list of things that need to be done and in what order so it doesn’t become chaotic.
2. Organize
Food prep can create a lot of waste. By keeping some bowls near the food prep area, it is easier to cut down on the mess. Throw prepped food into one bowl and the trash into another. The trash bowl can simply be emptied when there’s time.
3. Cleaning
When cooking in a small kitchen, bowls, pots, and pans can stack up quickly. Instead of letting them take over, make time for cleaning. After getting one dish in the oven, clean the bowls and utensils that were used to make it. It cuts down on cleaning time afterward and keeps the space more organized.
Having a small kitchen doesn’t mean homeowners can’t entertain during the holidays but it may mean they have to get a little more creative. For next year, consider a kitchen remodel, which All Star Plumbing and Restoration can help with.
Emergency Water Damage Services
While the Treasure Valley is gearing up for Thanksgiving, homeowners must remember that water damage doesn’t take a holiday. It also doesn’t observe normal office hours, which is why All Star Plumbing and Restoration is available 24/7 for water damage restoration needs.
Water damage isn’t always noticeable right away. Sometimes it progresses quite a bit before homeowners are aware of its presence. By that point there could be mold or structural damage. Here are some common indicators that there is hidden water damage:
- Odors
Water will stagnate, which allows for mold and bacteria to grow rampant. This will produce a musty smell throughout the affected area.
- Mold Growth
Sometimes water damage progresses to the point that mold begins to grow in nooks and crannies. Check places such as crawl spaces, attics, and basements for the presence of mold.
- Stains
Water damage can discolor the walls or ceilings, creating stains. Homeowners who notice these should call All Star Plumbing and Restoration immediately.
- Peeling Paint
When the drywall becomes saturated, paint can start to lose adhesion and peel away.
- Sagging
Ceilings or walls can begin to sag due to the weight of the loose water. This is very dangerous because they could collapse if they are damaged enough.
While getting ready for the holiday season, keep an eye out for signs of water damage. If any is found, call the team at All Star Plumbing and Restoration right away. They will dry out the water properly and help get the damage repaired so everyone can enjoy the holidays.
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