In the 19th century, stonecutters drilled strategically placed holes in rock with hand drills then insert strips of leather. Once the leather was in place, they would pour water into the hole. As the leather expanded, the rock would split.

If water pressure is great enough to break rocks, imagine what ice can do to your plumbing! Ice expands to a greater degree than water - the spaces between molecules in ice are larger making ice lighter than water. This is why ice floats in a glass of water and why a glass bottle filled with liquid can burst in the freezer. When water freezes inside plumbing or irrigation lines, the results can be costly cracks or breaks. Once the ice blockage has thawed, water will stream from the pipe.

Plumbing

Pipes can freeze when the level of insulation is not adequate as during unusually cold spells in the winter. Severe conditions can be costly for homeowners. Some insurance companies will not pay for property damage if pipes are not properly insulated. Metal pipes provide no insulation on their own - metal is, in fact, an excellent conductor of heat and cold. Plastic pipes offer slightly more protection than metal, however, they may also crack if water freezes and expands.

In many homes, plumbing is located next to outer walls where it is exposed to cold outdoor air. Pipes often lead from basements and under sink cabinets to outer walls. Insulation in these circumstances is a wise investment. Also consider insulating pipes in an unheated garage if your piping system passes through it. Insulation using spongy pipe jacketing comes in various diameters and can easily be cut to the required length. Open the slit in the jacket, slide it around the pipe and secure with electrician's tape. Ordinary insulation, cut in strips and bundled around pipes, also works well and can be slightly less expensive. You may also wish to insulate hot water pipes that run through unheated spaces in order to reduce heat loss.

If you are planning to be away from home for an extended period of time during the winter, turn off the main water valve or have the water company turn off service to your home. Once the water is turned off, open all the faucets indoors and out to allow the water to drain out then close the taps. If you do not wish to turn off the water supply, be sure to continue heating your home while you're away. If you have cabinets concealing the pipes beneath kitchen or bathroom sinks, open the cabinet doors to allow heat to reach the pipes.

Irrigation Systems

Normally, irrigation lines are buried to a depth of at least 18 cm (7 inches) in order to protect the pipes from freezing. Severe weather can be enough to freeze any water left in the pipe. At the end of the growing season, it is advisable to shut off the water valve and open the connections to allow the water to drain out.

Small Leaks

The origin of small leaks may not be immediately obvious. Water can run along the outside of a pipe concealing the break point. (A leaking pipe itself may also be concealed behind a wall in which case, professional assistance may be required.) Once you have located a small leak, the first step is to turn off the water supply. Dry off the pipe and wrap it tightly with several layers of electrician's tape. Wrap the tape widely allowing approximately 12 cm on either side of the hole. This is a temporary measure, but the tape should hold while you make a trip to the hardware store for a pipe clamp and rubber gasket. Leaks larger than the head of pin require professional repair.

In an emergency

A burst pipe can allow water into your home damaging furniture, carpet, walls, hardwood floors and belongings. In an emergency, time is of the essence. It's wise to find out where your water shut-off valve is before it's imperative. In newer homes, the shut-off valve is usually in the garage; in condominiums and townhouses, it's usually near the water heater or under the kitchen sink; if you live in an apartment without control of your water, speak to your building manager about emergency procedures. Taking a few moments to find your shut-off valve can spare you expensive damage in case of a water leak. Also give your valves a twist every six months. If they remain untouched for years, they may get stuck in the open position - that's the last thing you want during an emergency!

Thawing Pipes

When it comes to thawing pipes patience is truly a virtue. Applying too much heat too quickly will cause metal pipes to heat faster than the ice often leading to cracks or an explosion. Apply a gentle heat source such as from a hair dryer or a light bulb.

Preventative measures such as insulating unheated rooms and pipes are two easy ways of beating a powerful force of nature,