Weather Warning: Snow and Ice on the Way!
Our area is under a yellow weather warning for snow and ice from Saturday lunchtime (12pm 4th January 2025) until midnight on Sunday (5th January 2025).

Although there is a very high chance that we won't experience this extreme weather here in West Norfolk, we wanted to put some advice together for you on how you can protect your home during this period.

As temperatures drop and snow and ice settle in, it’s important to be prepared - especially when it comes to protecting your water pipes and keeping your home safe during extreme cold weather.

One of the most common issues in freezing conditions is frozen and burst pipes, which can cause significant damage. But with a few simple precautions, you can reduce the risk and ensure your home stays safe and warm throughout the winter.

1. Don’t Leave Yourself Open to Frozen and Burst Pipes

When water freezes, it expands, which can cause pipes to crack or burst. It’s crucial to protect your water pipes, particularly those in areas prone to freezing temperatures, like lofts, garages, or outside.

Insulate Your Pipes and Water Tanks

One of the most effective ways to prevent pipes from freezing is by insulating them with good quality lagging. Insulating your water pipes not only prevents freezing but also helps retain heat, reducing your energy costs and improving the efficiency of your hot water system.

Here are the key areas to focus on when insulating your home:

Outside Pipework:
Be sure to insulate external pipes like heating drainpipes, overflow pipes, and any exposed pipes leading outside. Don't forget the outside taps! You can find inexpensive pipe insulation and insulated tap covers at most DIY stores.

Cold Areas of Your Home:
Pipes in unused loft spaces and garages are especially vulnerable to freezing. Insulating these areas is crucial to prevent pipes from bursting in the cold snap.

Water Tanks:
Often overlooked, water tanks are one of the leading causes of burst pipes during freezing weather. Make sure your water tank is insulated, particularly in colder areas like lofts. A tank jacket is an easy and effective way to provide insulation.

2. Turn Off the Water If You’re Going Away

If you're planning to leave your home for a few days, it’s a good idea to turn off your water supply at the stopcock.

Once the water is turned off, it’s a good idea to drain the system by running taps until the pipes are empty. This can help reduce the risk of any water left in the pipes freezing and causing damage.

Remember to close all taps once you’re done to prevent any issues when you return home.

3. Other Helpful Tips for Snow and Ice Weather:

Clear Pathways:
Salt or grit your driveways and walkways to prevent ice from forming. A slip hazard can quickly turn into an emergency, so keeping paths clear is important for your safety. Our Placeshaping Team will continue to grit our sheltered schemes to make sure they are as safe as possible for our residents.

Check Your Heating:
Make sure your heating system is in good working order before the cold weather sets in. If you’re relying on space heaters, ensure they’re safe and have a working thermostat.

Keep Your Home Warm:
Even when you're not at home, it’s essential to maintain a low level of heat to protect pipes. Keep your thermostat set to at least 10°C to avoid freezing pipes, especially in rooms that are not in use.

Inspect Roof and Gutters:
Heavy snow can cause damage to your roof or gutters, leading to potential leaks or blockages. Clear any debris and check for any signs of damage before the weather worsens.

Monitor Weather Alerts:
Keep an eye on local weather warnings and be prepared to take action if temperatures dip lower than expected or if snow and ice accumulate quickly.

Final Thoughts

By taking a few simple steps to protect your pipes and your home, you can help prevent costly damage caused by freezing temperatures, burst pipes, and ice. As we brace for this weekend’s snow and ice, now is the time to ensure your home is prepared for the chill.

As always, if you have an emergency over the weekend which needs a repair, we will be a phone call away. Please call us on 03332 404 444 and hold the line - our out of hours team will be able to assist you. Stay safe, stay warm, and make sure your home is ready for the winter weather ahead!