Burst pipes are one of the most common and destructive plumbing problems. A burst pipe can quickly lead to extensive water damage, flooding, and expensive repairs. If you have a burst pipe, it is important to take immediate action to minimize the damage and prevent further problems. This guide will help you learn how to deal with a burst pipe and minimize the damage.
What causes a burst pipe?
Pipes can burst for a variety of reasons, but the most common cause is freezing. When water freezes, it expands and puts pressure on the pipes and this can cause the pipes to crack or even burst. Pipes that are exposed to cold weather are most at risk of freezing and bursting.
Other reasons could be:
1. Clogs: A build-up of sediment, grease, or other debris can cause clogs in your pipes. This can restrict the flow of water and put pressure on the pipes, which can lead to a burst pipe.
2. Corrosion: Over time, pipes can corrode and weaken. This can cause them to burst, especially if there is a sudden increase in water pressure.
3. Poor installation: Pipes that are not installed properly can be more likely to burst. This is often due to poor fitting or using the wrong type of pipe for the job.
4. Damage: Physical damage to a pipe can cause it to burst. This can be caused by excavating near the pipes, using too much force when tightening fittings, or even accidentally hitting the pipes with a heavy object.
What are some of the early signs of a burst pipe?
It is important to be aware of the early signs of a burst pipe so you can take action quickly. Some of the earliest indicators that a pipe may be about to burst include:
- Water leaks
- Puddles
- Water pressure issues
- Water noises
- Smelly water
- Discolored water
Steps to deal with a burst pipe
So now that we know what causes a burst pipe, let’s talk about what you should do if it happens to you.
1. Shut off the water
The first thing you need to do is shut off the water in your home. This will help prevent further damage from the leaking water. You can find the main shut-off valve for your home near the water meter or where the main water line comes into your home.
2. Call an emergency water damage restoration specialist
Once you have shut off the water, it is time to call in a professional. Water damage can be extensive, and it is important to have someone who knows what they are doing to assess the situation. A water damage restoration specialist will be able to determine the extent of the damage and start working on a plan to repair it.
3. Check the electric system
If the burst pipe is located near any electrical wiring, it is important to turn off the power to that area of your home as this will help prevent the risk of electrocution. Make sure to check with your local power company to see if they can shut off the power from the outside of your home.
4. Clean the water
Once the water has been shut off, you can start to clean up the mess. Start by removing any items that were soaked in the water. These items will need to be cleaned and dried as soon as possible to prevent further damage. If possible, put them in a sunny spot or use a fan to help speed up the drying process.
5. Let the warm air come in
If the temperature outside is cold, you will want to open the windows and doors to let some warm air in. This will help prevent the pipes from freezing again as well as speed up the drying process. You can also use air blowers or dehumidifiers to help remove the moisture from the air.
Call Huston Restore Pros
If you are having water damage issues in the Huston area, call Huston Restore Pros. We are a full-service emergency water damage restoration company that can help you with everything from assessment to cleanup. We have the experience and equipment to handle any size job, so don’t hesitate to give us a call.
Our services include:
- $0 down on insurance jobs
- Emergency response 24/7
- Free inspections
- We work directly with all the major insurance companies in the US
- IICRC certified
- State of the art equipment