Burst Pipes at Home: What to Do

Maintaining a home’s plumbing system can be difficult for the average homeowner. According to the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety, water damage from burst pipes and overflowing plumbing fixtures account for around 22% of all home insurance claims, with an average cost of over $10,000 per claim.

In addition to the financial burden, fixing plumbing issues on your own can be time-consuming and potentially dangerous. One study found that over 50% of homeowners have attempted to fix a plumbing issue, and almost one-third ended up worsening the problem, resulting in even more costly repairs.

Furthermore, specific plumbing issues can require specialized equipment and expertise that the average homeowner does not have. For example, fixing a ruptured water main requires digging up and repairing the line, and installing a new water heater requires electrical and gas connections knowledge.

Unfortunately, you might encounter something worse, like a pipe burst. The consequences of a pipe burst at home can be devastating, including extensive property damage, major repair bills, and health risks from mold or water contamination. Here are a few steps to take when you suspect a pipe burst at your home:

Shut Off Water

Shutting off the water is the first and most essential step towards fixing a pipe burst at home. A burst pipe can cause significant water damage to your property if not addressed quickly. Shutting off the water supply can help control flooding and prevent further damage to your home. Additionally, it reduces the risk of electrical hazards and minimizes the risk of injury or contamination from dirty water.

To safely shut off the water supply, follow these steps:

Locate the Main Water Valve

The main water valve is usually near the water meter, often in the basement or an outdoor faucet. Usually, it is a red or blue wheel or lever. Contact your water utility company for assistance if you cannot locate the main valve.

Turn Off the Main Water Valve

Once you have located the main water valve, please turn it off by rotating the wheel or lever clockwise until it stops. This will shut off the water supply to your entire home, including all the fixtures and appliances.

Drain the Water System

After shutting off the main valve, open all the faucets in your home to drain the remaining water in the pipes. This will help reduce pressure and minimize the risk of further water damage or leaks.

Document the Damage

Pipe bursts can cause significant damage to your home and belongings. Once you have shut off the water, document any visible damage for your insurance company. Take photos or videos of all affected areas and any damaged property or furniture.

Call a Professional Plumber

When fixing a pipe burst at home, it’s essential to call on a professional plumber for help. This is because the consequences of a pipe burst can be devastating, from extensive property damage and costly repairs to health risks from mold or water contamination. All these require specialized equipment and expertise that the average homeowner simply does not have.

A professional plumber can inspect the problem accurately and advise you on the best course of action for repair or replacement. They can assess any underlying issues, such as corrosion in older pipes, and provide solutions, such as installing new lines with better materials resistant to leaks and ruptures to prevent further damage.

Additionally, they can detect changes in pressure due to blockages or clogs, which can lead to bursts if left untreated. Furthermore, they can access quality parts that last longer while providing necessary warranties on specific components used during installation or repair work.

In short, plumbing issues like burst pipes are best handled by professionals who understand the complexity of your home’s system and have all the resources available for successful resolution without any added risks along the way!

Deal with Water Damage

Once the pipe burst has been addressed, you must deal with water damage and clean up. You may need to contact a company specializing in emergency water damage restoration if the area is too large or hazardous to handle. Those services can help you contain the damage and restore your home to its pre-emergency state. They will also be able to provide advice on preventive measures, such as installing a sump pump or waterproofing system.

Finally, consider contacting your insurance company if you have coverage for water damage from burst pipes. This can help with some of the costs associated with repairs and replacements due to the pipe burst.

Final Thoughts

Burst pipes are a serious issue that can lead to costly water damage and other problems if not addressed quickly. That is why following the steps outlined above is essential to minimize the risk of catastrophic damage or potential health hazards.