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Re: Freezing pipes

From: info@builderswebsource.com
Category: Plumbing
Remote Name: 63.198.181.43
Date: 25 Dec 2001
Time: 09:16 PM

Comments

Your question consists of two parts: 1) What type of foundation is best for your 20x20 addition and, 2) how do you prevent the pipes from freezing during construction of the addition.

As to the foundation, this depends largely on your soils conditions. Slabs can make excellent foundations. However in very cold climates, we recommend proper insulation underneath and along the the perimeter footing. A raised foundation (using posts) allows you to insulate the crawlspace. Of course, we generally recommend using a similar foundation to the existing structure, otherwise you may have varying levels which may or may not be a desired architectural feature.

To protect the pipes, any exposed pipes should be jacketed with tubular pipe insulation. Depending on the situation, you can also provide an electrical wrap which keeps the pipes from dipping below freezing. Heating cable, such as that manufacturered by Wrap-On (http://www.wrap-on.com/) is available from a range of suppliers for under $30 in short lengths with a standard grounded plug on one end. A built-in thermostat turns on when the pipe reaches about 38 degrees and shuts off at 45 degrees. Wrap-on is available from ACE and True Value Hardware stores, as well as online from http://www.CornerHardware.com - type in the word "heating cable" into the search field and go from there.

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