Why Do You Have Burst Pipes?

Burst pipes can cause extensive damage to your home. Moreover, burst pipes result in considerable water wastage, which adds to your water bill. Unfortunately, burst pipes are not always visible, so you may not realize you have a problem until the damage is already done.

Therefore, you should always watch out for signs of burst pipes:

• Unusually high water bills
• Water stains on walls or ceilings
• Mold growth
• Cracks in foundations or walls
• Wet spots in yards

If you notice any of these signs, contact a reputable plumbing company for a comprehensive system inspection to establish if burst pipes are the culprits for the above issues. Also, learn what causes pipes to burst and how to stop the damage.

Extreme Cold Temperatures

When water freezes, it can expand by up to 9%. The expansion creates immense force and puts pressure on your pipes. Eventually, the pipes cannot take the force anymore and may burst.

The unfortunate thing about burst pipes from freezing temperatures is that the signs are not apparent until the damage is done. By then, you would have had a significant water leak, which has already caused extensive damage to your home or yard.

If you live in an area with frigid temperatures, you can take these steps to prevent the pipes from bursting:

• Insulate your pipes
• Let faucets drip during cold weather
• Keep cabinet doors open so warm air can reach pipes near exterior walls

If you suspect that a pipe has frozen but not burst, contact an emergency plumber.

Worn Out Pipes or Connections

Poorly installed connections and pipes can put immense pressure on certain areas of the piping system. Over time, this pressure will cause these areas to weaken and eventually burst.

Note that even the best quality pipes and connections are susceptible to damage due to age. In addition, the pipes may rust or corrode due to the constant exposure to water. As such, regular maintenance is crucial so that your plumber can fix any problems before the problems cause extensive damage.

If you have old pipes or connections, have a reputable plumber check them regularly and replace them if necessary.

Clogged Pipes

A range of aspects may cause pipe blockage. If any of these blockages are severe enough, they will cause the water pressure in the pipes to increase, which will, in turn, lead to a burst.

Buildup of Sediment

Over time, the water that flows through your pipes will leave behind a mineral buildup or sediment. This issue is more prevalent in areas with hard water. The buildup narrows the pipe and decreases water flow.

Tree Roots

If you have trees on your property, their roots can grow into your sewer lines and cause blockages.

Grease Buildup

Grease and fat from cooking can stick to the inside of pipes and eventually cause a blockage. When pipes are blocked, water will have limited or no space to flow.

Note that you may not always be able to see a clog, as the blockage could be hidden deep in the pipes. However, if you experience slow drains, sewage backup, and gurgling sounds, you likely have a clog.

Contact a professional plumber for assistance if you have a clog. The experts have specialized tools to inspect even the hard-to-reach areas of the pipes. The professionals will also clear the blockage to prevent further damage.

Now that you understand the likely causes of burst pipes, you can be proactive and take preventative measures to minimize the risks. If you have a problem with your pipes, don't hesitate to contact us at Mike's Plumbing for repairs or re-piping. We are experienced and have the necessary tools to do the job efficiently.