Burst pipes can cause significant damage to your home or business, leading to costly repairs and disruption of daily activities. In this category page, we'll break down the causes of burst pipes, their effects, and how to repair the damage.
Causes of Burst Pipes:
Cold weather

In regions that experience cold temperatures, pipes can freeze and burst when the water inside them freezes and expands. This is a common problem in the northern and northeastern regions of the United States, where temperatures can drop well below freezing during the winter months.
To prevent burst pipes in these regions, it's important to insulate pipes that are located in unheated areas, such as basements, attics, and crawl spaces. Homeowners can also keep a trickle of water flowing from faucets to prevent the water from freezing inside the pipes.
Aging pipes

Pipes that are old and corroded are more susceptible to bursting, regardless of the region. Homeowners should have their pipes inspected regularly by a licensed plumber to determine if they need to be replaced. In some cases, homeowners insurance may cover the cost of replacing old pipes.
High water pressure
Regions that have high water pressure can put extra stress on pipes and cause them to burst. Homeowners can install a pressure-reducing valve to regulate the water pressure and reduce the risk of burst pipes.
Physical damage
Pipes can be damaged due to external factors, such as construction or accidents. Homeowners should be careful when doing any renovations or landscaping that could damage pipes. They should also make sure that their pipes are not located in areas where heavy machinery or vehicles could accidentally damage them.
Effects of Burst Pipes:
Water damage

Burst pipes can lead to flooding and water damage, which can cause structural damage, mold growth, and other health hazards. In addition to the damage to the property, there can also be health risks associated with standing water, including the growth of mold and mildew. It's important to address water damage immediately to prevent further damage and mitigate health risks.
Property damage
Water damage can ruin furniture, electronics, and other personal items. If you have personal items in the area affected by water damage, it's important to remove them from the area as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
Higher water bills

Burst pipes can lead to wastage of water, resulting in higher water bills. Homeowners should keep an eye on their water bills to detect any sudden increases, which could indicate a burst pipe.
Repairs
Turn off water supply
The first step in repairing burst pipes is to turn off the water supply to prevent further damage. Homeowners should know where their main water shut-off valve is located and how to turn it off in case of an emergency.
Clean up the water
After the pipes are repaired, it's important to mitigate the growth of mold and reduce potential health risks, it is crucial to address and rectify any water damage. Homeowners should hire a water damage restoration company to help with the clean-up process. These professionals have specialized equipment to dry out the affected areas and prevent mold growth.
Call a professional plumber
It's best to call a professional plumber to repair the damage, as they have the expertise and equipment to fix the issue. In some cases, homeowners insurance may cover the cost of the repairs.