As a homeowner, the last thing you’ll want to happen is for your water pipes to burst and throw your peaceful residence into disarray. Unfortunately, this is among the most common plumbing issues that plague homes of all sizes. 

What’s even worse is that water pipes usually burst without warning. Moreover, this often causes extensive damage to your walls, floors, or belongings. In the worst cases, it can also result in flooding inside your abode, requiring flood removal in Utah. 

It’s worth noting, however, that water supply pipes are designed to be durable. They are manufactured to withstand a considerable amount of force, resist bursting, and last long. Considering this, burst pipes are most likely caused by significant structural damage. 

One effective way to prevent this is by understanding why they happen in the first place. On that note, here are the four most common causes of burst pipes: 

1. Extreme Temperatures 

The low temperatures during winter can cause serious damages to your plumbing system. They can freeze the water inside your pipes, causing them to expand and put extra pressure on the pipes’ walls. This pressure will only keep on building up until it can escape—which is why they burst their way out of your pipes. 

To prevent this, make sure to insulate your exposed water supply pipes once the colder months roll in. Furthermore, keep your house warm at all times; do not let the temperature fall below 55 degrees Fahrenheit. 

2. Water Hammer 

Also called hydraulic shock, this refers to the pressure surge created when a water line is suddenly turned on or off. When a faucet, valve, or water appliance is shut off, the water is abruptly forced to stop its course of motion. 

However, it will not simply halt; it will look for a place to go as it changes direction. It usually ends up banging against the pipe’s walls or the shut-off valve in your system. This is what creates that pounding noise. 

Water hammer, if left unaddressed, can weaken the joints in your plumbing system over time and ultimately burst your pipes. 

3. Abnormal Water Pressure 

Generally, water pressure is not harmful; after all, it is what helps your water supply pipes function properly. However, an abnormal increase in it can easily burst your pipes. It can also cause your faucet, toilet, and other plumbing fixtures to malfunction.  

If you suspect that you have high water pressure, you can confirm it by using a pressure gauge. 

On average, water pressure in most homes ranges from 30 to 50 psi (pounds per square inch). If yours exceeds 60 psi, it is best to get in touch with experts right away. Your prompt action can help you successfully avert a disaster. 

4. Corrosion 

As mentioned earlier, pipes are manufactured to withstand extreme pressure. Moreover, they are also meant to last a long time. However, this does not mean that they will be in good condition forever. 

Over time, they become increasingly prone to corrosion. With that, you should remember that rusting pipes can easily burst or close itself off, prohibiting water from flowing through. 

The best way around this is to have your water supply pipes repaired or replaced, especially if they haven’t been changed for years. 

Conclusion

Having a pipe burst is probably one of the worst and most stressful things to happen in your home. The bright side is that there are steps you can take to prevent this chaos from happening in your own abode. You can get started by noting the four common causes listed above and watching out for them. Ultimately, you must take the appropriate steps to address them when they do occur so you can avoid stressful damages and expensive repairs.  

If you are dealing with the aftermath of a burst pipe, you can count on AAA Restoration Utah for prompt Utah disaster restoration services. Our highly qualified restoration professionals can help you get your lives back to normal quickly and effectively—get in touch today to get started!