The pipes in your home play an essential role but when they burst, you’re in trouble. Not only can they cause significant damage, they can also be challenging to repair and replace. To get an idea of how best to deal with burst water pipes, this comprehensive overview is a handy guide for the average homeowner.
Why Do Water Pipes Burst?
Water pipes can burst for a number of reason from environmental reasons to trauma and more. To get an idea of what specifically could cause this to occur, there are six primary reasons.
1. Freezing
When the weather gets below freezing, water pipes can fill with water that then freezes. As most people know, frozen water expands, putting pressure on the pipes which may then cause them to burst. In order to prevent freezing, keeping the house at a moderate temperature is a good idea. When the weather gets too cold, it’s also a good idea to keep the faucets dripping so that the water keeps moving.
2. Tree Root Growth
The trees on the property will have root systems and some of them could have problems. The roots for some trees may grow until they reach the water pipes. When this happens, the roots may grow around the pipes and apply pressure on them until they crack. It’s best to avoid planting trees too closely to the water pipes. Also, make sure to research the type of tree and avoid planting trees that may have invasive roots.
3. Pipe Breakdown
Pipes don’t last forever. Some pipe materials such as steel can only take so much wear and tear at a time. When they’ve been in place for an extended period of time, the pipes will corrode and then slowly burst open. There’s not much that you can do to prevent this breakdown but replacing them with plastic or copper will keep them corroding in the future.
4. Soil Shifts
In some cases, soil shifts in the area can cause pressure on the pipes which will lead them to burst. This often happens when construction is happening in the immediate area. It’s best to talk to the construction crew to ask them to be careful about where they’re placing soil. By dumping displaced dirt strategically, the crew may be able to save your pipes from excessive strain.
5. High Water Pressure
The best water pressure for most pipes in the house is 40-45 psi. It’s not recommended to have a water pressure of more than 60 psi. When this occurs, the pipes are going to be at risk for burst. Water pressure can be rising for a number of reasons. It may be pumped into the house too much or there may be other impairments in the system.
6. Clogs
The final reason for a burst pipe is a clog in the system. When a clog exists, it can cause a buildup of pressure which than leads to the pipe cracking and bursting. Anything that goes down the sink which shouldn’t can lead to a clog so it’s best to use drain stoppers and avoid throwing large items down the sink.
What are the Consequences of a Busted Water Pipe?
There are significant problems which can occur when your pipes burst. For a slower leak that may not be noticed, mold growth is common. The mold is challenging to remove but it grows well in moisture so this is a significant problem.
The water can also lead to structural integrity problems. If the water floods the home, everything in the home can be damaged and warped by the water. Finally, the water can damage the non-structural elements of the house. It can destroy electronics, valuables, and anything else in your home. In many cases, these items may not be able to be repaired.
What to Do When Water Pipes Burst?
If you notice the signs and symptoms of a burst pipe, there are a few basic steps that you should take. It’s best to first turn off the water supply to your home. Your main shut-off valve is likely near the water heater or in the basement. Once it’s been shut off, no more water will be draining out of the burst pipe.
Your next step is to identify the location of the burst pipe. This may be inside a wall. You may not know the exact area but determining the approximate location is a great step. Finally, reach out to a professional plumber to repair the burst pipe. This can be a short or lengthy process depending on the damage but it’s best to act promptly to prevent any severe repairs.
How to Prevent Burst Water Pipes?
It’s always easier to prevent a pipe from bursting rather than dealing with the damage. In general, the winter is the most dangerous time for pipes bursting. It is recommended to choose a suitable water pipe according to the living climate. For places where weather is extreme, it is better to choose a water pipe with stronger heat resistance or cold resistance.
In extremely cold weather, it’s also a good idea to have a faucet running slowly. You’ll pay more in your water bill but by having the water moving, it will be less likely to freeze. You should also disconnect your hose from any outside faucets. This can prevent the water from draining when in place and can break the device.
Finally, if you do find yourself in the unfortunate state of needing a pipe replacement, remember that not all pipes are created equal. China LESSO offers comprehensive home building materials with thousands of specifications. They’re widely used in water systems and provide high quality products at an affordable price. They’re a great option to solve any current plumbing problems and prevent future failures in your piping system.
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