What Causes a Burst Pipe and How to Prevent It

A burst pipe is one of the most disruptive plumbing issues a homeowner can face. It can cause immediate flooding and lead to expensive repairs and extensive damage to your home’s structure.

Knowing why pipes burst and how to prevent it can save you from this problem. Let’s break down the main causes of burst pipes and effective ways to protect your plumbing system.

Need help protecting your home? Contact Tom’s Plumbing and Drain Service, LLC for expert inspections and proactive solutions to keep your pipes safe! Call us today!

Common Causes of Burst Pipes

Several things can cause a pipe to burst, and some may not be immediately obvious. Cold weather, pressure issues, and even tree roots can all lead to serious plumbing problems if not addressed.

• Freezing Temperatures

One of the primary reasons pipes burst is due to freezing temperatures. When water freezes inside pipes, it expands. This expansion creates immense pressure, often enough to crack or completely rupture the pipe.

This is common in areas with harsh winters or in homes with uninsulated pipes. Exposed pipes in basements, attics, or exterior walls are the most vulnerable to freezing. Without insulation or protection, the water inside them can freeze, leading to a dangerous buildup of pressure.

• High Water Pressure

Another common cause of burst pipes is high water pressure. While strong water pressure is a convenience for homeowners, too much pressure can strain pipes over time, especially at weak points.

Pipes are designed to handle water pressure within a certain range, typically between 40 to 60 psi (pounds per square inch). When the pressure exceeds this limit, the extra force pushes against the walls of the pipes, weakening them and leading to cracks or bursts.

1. Corrosion and Aging Pipes

Over time, the materials used in plumbing systems degrade. Older homes are particularly susceptible to pipe bursts due to corrosion and aging infrastructure.

Pipes made from galvanized steel or copper, common in homes built several decades ago, are more likely to experience corrosion as they age. As the pipes corrode, small leaks can form, and eventually, these weak spots can develop into significant cracks or breaks, resulting in a burst pipe.

1. Clogs and Blockages

A less obvious cause of burst pipes is clogging. When a blockage forms in a pipe, it can increase the pressure inside as water struggles to pass through. If the pressure becomes too great, it can cause the pipe to burst.

This often occurs in drains where debris like hair, soap scum, or grease builds up. Clogs may be caused by foreign objects flushed down toilets or improperly disposed of in sinks.

1. Tree Root Intrusion

Underground pipes can be affected by tree roots, which naturally seek out sources of water. Over time, these roots can grow into pipes, especially older ones, creating cracks or blockages.

As the roots grow, they can eventually cause the pipe to rupture. This issue is common with older sewer lines, where roots have had years to grow and spread into underground plumbing systems.

Preventive Measures to Avoid Burst Pipes

There are effective ways to protect your pipes from damage. Taking a few steps now can help prevent a pipe burst, saving you from expensive repairs later.

• Insulate Exposed Pipes

Insulating your pipes is one of the most effective ways to prevent them from bursting due to freezing temperatures. Pipes in unheated areas, such as basements, attics, or crawl spaces, are particularly at risk.

Wrapping these pipes with insulation helps keep them warm, reducing the chance of freezing. Foam pipe insulation is affordable and can be easily installed by homeowners, making it a practical solution to protect your pipes during colder months.

• Monitor Water Pressure

High water pressure may feel convenient, but it puts extra strain on your pipes. To prevent pipes from bursting, consider installing a water pressure regulator to keep your home’s pressure within the safe range.

Regularly checking your water pressure can help you identify any issues early. A professional plumber can help you install and monitor a pressure regulator to ensure your system is functioning properly.

• Replace Aging or Corroded Pipes

If your home is older or has pipes made from outdated materials, it may be time to replace them. Corroded pipes are a ticking time bomb, as even a small leak can escalate into a major burst.

A professional plumber can inspect your system and recommend replacements for older pipes before they fail. Modern materials like PEX or copper are much more resistant to corrosion and will provide a longer-lasting solution to prevent future bursts.

• Keep Faucets Dripping During Cold Weather

One simple yet effective way to prevent frozen pipes is to allow faucets to drip slightly during freezing weather. This helps relieve pressure within the pipes, reducing the risk of a burst.

When water flows, even at a slow rate, it prevents it from freezing inside the pipe. This is especially useful for pipes that are exposed or located in unheated areas of the home.

• Regular Plumbing Inspections

Preventive maintenance is always better than dealing with an emergency. Scheduling regular plumbing inspections can help catch problems like weak spots, blockages, or corrosion before they result in a burst pipe.

A plumber can inspect your system for any potential issues and recommend solutions to keep your pipes in top shape. Investing in an inspection once or twice a year can save you the cost and headache of dealing with a burst pipe in the future.

What to Do If a Pipe Bursts

Even with the best precautions, sometimes a pipe can still burst. Knowing what to do in the event of a burst pipe can help minimize damage and prevent further problems.

1. Turn off the water supply – Immediately shut off the main water valve to stop the flow of water and prevent further flooding.
2. Shut off the electricity – If water is near electrical outlets or appliances, turn off the electricity in the affected area to avoid electrical hazards.
3. Call a professional plumber – A burst pipe is not a DIY project. Call a professional plumber right away to assess and repair the damage.
4. Remove standing water – Use towels, buckets, or a wet/dry vacuum to clean up any water to prevent mold growth and further water damage.
5. Dry out the area – Use fans or dehumidifiers to dry out the affected area as quickly as possible.

Burst Pipe? We’ve Got You Covered!

Burst pipes are a serious problem that can lead to extensive damage, but there are plenty of ways to protect your home from this issue. If a pipe does burst, acting quickly by turning off the water supply and calling a professional will help minimize the damage.

Stop a plumbing issue before it starts! Whether it’s inspections or emergency repairs, Tom’s Plumbing and Drain Service, LLC is here to keep your home safe. Contact us now for expert solutions!