What Causes Pipes to Burst and How to Prevent It from Happening

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What Causes Pipes to Burst and How to Prevent It from Happening

broken pipe

Pipe bursts are a common plumbing issue that can cause serious damage to homes and businesses. A burst pipe can be caused by various reasons, including freezing temperatures, corrosion, and shifting soil. Understanding the causes of a burst pipe can help you take the necessary steps to prevent it from occurring in the future.

1. Freezing Temperatures

One of the most common causes of a pipe burst in freezing temperatures. When temperatures dip below freezing, water inside pipes can freeze and expand. This causes the pipe to expand and eventually rupture, leading to a burst. 

2. Corrosion

Another cause of pipe bursts is corrosion. Corrosion occurs when the pipe’s interior is exposed to air or chemicals, and it can cause the pipe to weaken over time. This weakening can eventually lead to a rupture, resulting in a burst. 

3. Shifting Soil

Shifting soil can also cause a burst pipe. If the ground around the pipe shifts, it can cause the pipe to become misaligned and eventually rupture. Contact a professional plumber immediately if you notice any signs of shifting soil.

How to Prevent Pipe Bursts

Pipe bursts can be a major problem for homeowners, often resulting in extensive damage and costly repairs. Fortunately, you can take steps to prevent pipe bursts and protect your home. Here are some tips on how to prevent pipe bursts in your home. 

1. Insulate Exposed Pipes

Pipes in attics, basements and crawl spaces are particularly vulnerable to cold temperatures, so insulating them properly is important. Wrapping exposed pipes in an insulating material like foam or fiberglass is an effective way to keep them from freezing and bursting. 

2. Install a Water Heater Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve

This valve helps maintain a safe water temperature and pressure level. If the temperature or pressure exceeds the set level, the valve will open and release the excess water. Having this important safety feature in place can help prevent pipe bursts. 

3. Shut off the Water Supply during Cold Weather

If temperatures are expected to drop below freezing, it’s best to shut off the water supply to your home. This will prevent your pipes from freezing and bursting. 

Call Water Damage Restoration Services

It is important to act quickly to mitigate the damage when a pipe bursts. Water damage restoration services can help to remove the excess water and repair any damage caused by the burst pipe. These services typically include water extraction, water damage repair, and drying. Water extraction is the process of removing excess water from a building. 

This is typically done with specialized equipment, such as pumps and vacuums. Water damage repair involves repairing any structural damage caused by the burst pipe, such as walls, flooring, and ceilings. Lastly, drying reduces moisture levels in the building to prevent mold and mildew growth. 

In addition to these services, some water damage restoration companies offer additional services, such as mold removal and prevention, odor removal, and air quality testing. These services are important for ensuring that the property is safe to inhabit. 

Conclusion

Pipe bursts can cause extensive damage to your home and property, and repairs can be quite expensive. Water damage restoration services can help you minimize the damage and the cost of repairs by providing fast and effective solutions to help you get your home back to its pre-burst condition. By understanding the causes of pipe bursts and the services available, you can make informed decisions about how to protect your property best.

Does your property need water damage restoration in Utah? AAA Restoration is here to help. Our team has the knowledge and the latest equipment necessary to perform the restoration quickly and efficiently. Contact us today, and let us help you restore your home!