Preventing Pipe Bursts In Schools

School plumbing systems are often vulnerable to plumbing issues. One reason is the high number of people using the taps and sinks. Another reason is the wear and tear that occurs over the years. Most plumbing issues arise when schools close, and there is very little traffic causing water, debris, chemicals, and organisms to build up in the pipes. However, plumbing issues may also arise during school days and disrupt education as the school authorities attempt to mitigate severe damage. Pipe bursts can have devastating consequences on the school building and other surrounding properties. Thus, it is important to mitigate pipe bursts. A plumber can help make the school's piping system resistant to bursts through the following considerations:

Choosing the Right Piping Material

Most plumbers offer three material piping options: steel, plastic, and copper. Each material has its pros and cons, which influence pipe bursts. For example, steel or iron pipes are the most durable and contain water under high pressure without breaking or cracking. However, these pipes rust quickly and can lead to rusty water flowing through your pipes. On the other hand, plastic pipes are easier to work with but are not durable or heat resistant. Copper remains a popular material in the plumbing business because it has fewer contaminants than steel or iron and can withstand more pressure than plastic. 

Insulating the Pipes 

Most plumbing firms insulate external pipes as a precaution against freezing water. Usually, pipes are exposed to natural elements. Thus, the water they are carrying can freeze during low temperatures, such as in winter. Frozen water is catastrophic and can burst even metal pipes because of molecular differences between liquid and frozen water. If an external pipe bursts, it can soak into the school's foundation and walls, endangering its equipment and furniture. Your plumber can choose from mineral, glass wool, polyethylene, cellular glass, and other industry-standard insulation materials to keep the water in the external pipes liquid. 

Conducting Regular Maintenance Checks

School administrators should schedule regular plumbing maintenance as a mitigation strategy. It is cheaper to conduct regular maintenance and inspection checks of the piping systems and walls than to mitigate water damage caused by burst pipes. It is also vital to inspect the boilers, furnaces, filters, and ductwork to ensure they are in good working condition and prevent heating failure. Regular maintenance allows plumbers to detect underlying plumbing issues and recommend timely solutions. Reputable plumbers can identify issues in the pipes before they burst and cost the school a lot of time and resources.

Contact a plumber in your area for more information.  

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