FROZEN/ PIPES BURST
A burst radiator in a home heating system is a nightmare. Not only is the danger of steam burns present, but the sudden gushing out of water and steam will flood out a house, causing a multitude of water damage problems. Understanding why a radiator bursts will prevent this from happening, and the old saying, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure," is well worth applying when it comes to radiators.
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Water Damage
It is common knowledge that water freezing inside a pipe expands and bursts the pipe. The same thing can happen inside a radiator. If a house is left unheated, accumulated water can freeze inside the radiator. The expansion causes hairline cracks to develop, compromising its integrity. When pressurized, the radiator no longer can take the pressure and bursts along the hairline cracks.
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Identifying Damage
Water from non-sewage line pipes is clean and nontoxic. However, when a pipe bursts inside a wall, the water that spills out is absorbed by almost everything in its path. The wooden framing studs and sheetrock that make up your home's walls act like a sponge, absorbing the spreading water. Water also shorts out any electrical outlets or wiring it contacts. Outside of the walls there's carpet and wood flooring, both of which absorb water. Books and family photographs are very susceptible to water damage. Metals, such as those found in consumer electronics, will start to rust or corrode.
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Prepare a list of the damaged areas
Prepare a list of the damaged areas such as windows, siding, shutters and satellite dishes. Include the damaged materials in this list. You may be able to present this list to the insurance company's adjuster even if you are not present for his assessment. Send a copy to the insurance company ahead of time if you cannot schedule an assessment at which you will be present.
Contact Listed Contractor
With that check in hand, the homeowner can now find a roofing company that will do the work for the same cost as the insurance proceeds.The usual procedure is for the homeowner to pay the roofing company the same amount as the initial check when the agreement is signed. This allows the company to pay for the material and labor in advance.
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