There are several reasons why water pipes may burst. Weak joints, improper water pressure, no insulation when the temperature dips below 55 degrees Fahrenheit, unsecured water pipes or corrosion are all enough to cause a rupture in the line. When you experience one, there are four steps to take after your pipes burst.
Step One: Shut Off the Water Main
When you are aware of or suspect a burst water pipe, the most important first step to take is to shut off the water main. Even if you are not sure where the damage is or you cannot detect where the water is coming from, shutting off the water will make it easier to locate the problem. You may have a main shut off underneath the kitchen sink or you can go to the main outside where it connects to the house.
As a good measure, all members of the household ought to know where the water main shut off is located. Once the water is off, you can go about draining the system. This is achieved by running the cold-water taps on all your sinks. You can also give the toilets a flush. Make sure you shut off the water heater before you then proceed to run all the hot taps open until you have completely drained the system, which will stop the leaking.
Step Two: Locating the Break and Inspecting for Damage
Before you make any repairs or engage professional pipe repair services, inspect the damage. Is it a small break or does it appear to be a major rupture in the pipeline? If you are unable to find it, you may want to engage the services of a plumber who has video equipment to examine the pipeline without needing to perform any excavation.
A small break may be repaired with minimal measures such as a patch using a commercial grade tape or a chemical bonding agent. If you choose to make this repair yourself, keep an eye on the repair you perform. There is every likelihood you could need to revisit your efforts if it bursts open again.
Step Three: Repairing a Main Line
Small cracks or breaks occurring in non-main pipe segments are straightforward and inexpensive, for the most part. A section of garden hose with clamps or grips that can be tightened to the extreme may be all you need to stop the leak. Test this repair by turning the water back on.
For more significant breaks, you may find you need to excise the broken segment using a hacksaw. You need to cut away enough of the pipe to exceed the ruptured part. You replace this segment using pipe spacers and sealant. Just be sure it is not too tight.
Step Four: Address Water Restoration Issues
The insidious nature of water damage calls for your vigilance after the repair is affected. If the leak occurred where there are walls, ceiling or flooring, you may best be served by calling professional water restoration services. The accumulation of mold from mildew presents a significant health risk to occupants.
Using a fan and opening windows for the purpose of drying may not be enough to prevent the potential health hazard. If there is significant water, keep any power to this area turned off as a precaution.
If you have any doubts about properly executing the fix on a burst pipe, be prepared to engage the services of a professional. There may be more to contend with than the pipe repair. While they are at it, you can have them test the home’s water pressure just to be sure. It is better to have the peace of mind in knowing all aspects have been addressed for the safety of your home and your loved ones.
