Kiser Construction Warns North Metro Homeowners About Early Freezing
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Kiser Construction, a damage restoration contractor based in Elk River, Minnesota, is warning homeowners in the north and northwest metro to prepare for potential pipe freezing before the first official freeze hits the Twin Cities. The company urges residents to take preventive measures now to avoid costly damage in the spring.
According to the National Weather Service, the Twin Cities typically see their first freeze between October 1 and 10. However, Kiser Construction notes that freezing nights often reach the outer suburbs before the official Twin Cities reading at MSP Airport. St. Cloud's first freeze usually occurs between September 21 and 30, and the median first freeze at MSP Airport is on October 8. In Buffalo, it's October 2, and in Cambridge, it's as early as September 25. The company explains that the urban heat island effect can keep the city core above freezing on nights when outlying areas freeze.
Kiser Construction recommends several steps to prevent pipe damage: 1. Disconnect and drain garden hoses, along with any splitters, timers, or nozzles. 2. Ensure the main water shutoff valve is accessible and functional. For city water, it's usually on the basement wall facing the street, near the meter. For a private well, look near the pressure tank. 3. Insulate pipes in crawl spaces, garages, and basement rim joists. 4. During cold snaps, open cabinet doors under sinks on outside walls to allow warm air to reach the pipes. 5. For those traveling, keep the heat at 55 degrees or higher and have someone check the house. 6. Check the basement wall behind outdoor faucets for water the first time they are used in the spring.
The company notes that nationally, about one in 60 insured homes has a property damage claim caused by water damage or freezing each year. From 2019 to 2023, only wind and hail claims were more frequent, and the average water damage and freezing claim was $15,400.
Kiser Construction's full winter checklist and first steps after a break are available on its website. Homeowners who find water can reach the 24/7 emergency line at (612) 518-8852.
Since 2003, Kiser Construction has helped homeowners and businesses recover from water, fire, and storm damage across Sherburne, Wright, and Anoka counties and the Twin Cities north metro. The company is IICRC certified and licensed in Minnesota (BC416441).