As winter blankets us with snow and frost, it’s essential to gear up for the colder months. We understand the importance of a comfy and secure living environment for our tenants. In this blog, we’ll explore two crucial winter maintenance tasks that can make a significant difference in preserving the integrity of your homes during the chilly season.
Shutting Off External Water Bibs: Protecting Your Pipes from Frostbite
One of the primary concerns during winter is the potential damage to external water bibs due to freezing temperatures. When water freezes, it expands, and if there’s any water left in the pipes, it can lead to burst pipes and costly repairs. To prevent this from happening, it’s crucial to shut off external water bibs before the frost sets in.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you with the process:
a. Locate the Shut-off Valve: Find the shut-off valve for your external water bib. It’s typically located in the basement or crawl space.
b. Turn Off the Water: Once you’ve located the valve, turn it off to stop the water supply to the external bib.
c. Drain the Water: Open the external bib to allow any remaining water to drain out. This step is crucial to prevent freezing and expansion inside the pipes.
d. Protect with Insulation: Consider insulating the external bib with a specialized cover to provide an extra layer of protection against the cold.
By taking these steps, you can safeguard your pipes and ensure a hassle-free winter season.
Deicer Dilemma: Choosing Between Salt and Concrete-Safe Alternatives
Snow and ice accumulation can create slippery surfaces around your property, posing a safety hazard. Many people resort to using salt as a deicer, but it’s essential to be aware of its potential drawbacks. Salt can harm concrete surfaces, leading to cracks and deterioration over time. At KT Property Management, we recommend using concrete-safe deicers as an alternative.
Here are some concrete-safe deicers to consider:
a. Calcium Magnesium Acetate (CMA): This environmentally friendly option is known for its minimal impact on concrete and vegetation.
b. Potassium Acetate: Another eco-friendly choice, potassium acetate, is effective in melting ice without causing harm to concrete.
c. Sand: While not a deicer, sand can provide traction on icy surfaces without causing damage to concrete.
By opting for concrete-safe deicers, you can maintain the integrity of your property’s walkways and driveways while ensuring the safety of residents and visitors.
Conclusion:
As winter settles in, KT Property Management is committed to ensuring that our tenants have a comfortable and secure living experience. By following these winter maintenance tips, you can protect your pipes from the freeze and keep your property’s concrete surfaces in top-notch condition. Stay warm, stay safe, and enjoy the beauty of winter without the worry of property damage.