When it comes to plumbing emergencies, a pipe bursting is one of the most common. A pipe bursts in your home is not only a huge mess, it’s also potentially very dangerous. You may be able to handle it yourself, but if you can’t, it’s a good idea to call a professional. The damage caused by pipe bursts depends on where you are and what time of year it is. The biggest danger is a pipe bursting inside a wall or under the house, where it can cause severe structural damage and flooding, so it’s important to act quickly when you suspect a pipe has burst.
What causes pipes to burst
There are many reasons why a pipe may burst, from a freeze or break in the pipe itself, to a heavy object dropping on it, to simply being old and worn out. With all of these causes, one would think there would be more pipe busting incidents. However, most of the time, pipes burst due to a combination of factors such as wear and tear, old age, and a buildup of sediment, which can plug the inside of the pipes. Unfortunately, what causes pipes to burst is often a mystery. Pipes can burst for other reasons such as extreme temperatures, soil movement, and water pressure.
What to do when a pipe bursts
First, turn off the water to the broken pipe. If you are unsure how to turn off the water, look for the main valve or the turn-off valve. If there is no valve, turn off the water under the sink where the pipe is connected. Second, make sure the area is safe. If the area is flooded, turn off the electricity to the area or unplug any electricity-powered appliances. If the pipe is in the basement, turn off the sump pump. Then, call a plumber. A burst pipe can cause damage beyond repair and a plumber can quickly assess the situation and help you mitigate the damage.
How to avoid pipes bursting
To avoid pipe bursts, it is important to be aware of the warning signs that a burst may be in your near future. These include drips from the faucets, toilets, and other plumbing fixtures. You should also pay attention to the sound of the plumbing as it flows through the pipes in your home. If you hear gurgling or other strange noises, you may be able to avoid a full-blown pipe burst by stopping up the troublesome area.
Leaks and bursts can be a big problem in the winter. The cold weather makes your pipes more susceptible to freezing and bursting, as well as other problems. Although you can’t completely avoid pipe burst, you can take steps to reduce the risk and deal with it effectively if it does happen. The first step is to make sure you have all the services of a trusted plumber. This includes annual checkups and routine cleaning to catch any problems before they happen. You should also know how to turn off your home’s water supply if a burst occurs.
