The natural flow of water throughout your plumbing pipes is seamless, effortless, and even graceful. That is, until pipes freeze, are invaded by tree roots, weaken from corrosion, or develop deep clogs within your plumbing system. As Fenton restoration specialists, we’ve seen the kind of chaos and water damage a burst pipe can cause in your home. Your walls and ceilings can get stained, develop mold and mildew, and your flooring can even sustain irreparable damage.
Pipes can even burst from leaks, and undetected leaks can lead to increased water bills. In today’s economy, there’s no room for wasteful expenditures. That’s why Property Medic is going to guide you through everything you need to know about a burst pipe in your Fenton home. From learning the telltale signs a pipe’s about to burst to why pipes can burst to what to do if you do encounter one, we will cover it all.
With our comprehensive water damage restoration services, we can ensure your home returns to its pre-damage condition as quickly as possible. So, keep reading as we teach you about this very serious plumbing issue.
What Causes a Pipe to Burst? Common Reasons for Pipe Bursts
Pipe bursting is a serious concern for Fenton homeowners for several reasons. Pipes burst due to local weather conditions, aging infrastructure, and improper pipe installations. In fact, in Fenton, Missouri, homeowners are instructed each year to adequately insulate and winterize their exposed plumbing pipes to prevent freezing. Otherwise, they have to deal with extensive damage to their basements, walls, and personal belongings.
And while we’re always ready to step in with our water damage restoration services, we want to ensure homeowners have the right knowledge and tools to minimize damage to their property. Now, what causes a pipe burst? Pipes may burst because of common causes such as:
Freezing Temperatures
One of the most common reasons for a pipe burst in Fenton is freezing temperatures, which require burst pipe repair. You see, when water inside pipes freezes, it expands significantly, increasing the pressure on the pipe until it ruptures. If you have uninsulated pipes in basements, attics, or exterior walls, they will be particularly vulnerable. To prevent frozen pipes, insulate pipes before temperatures drop, set the thermostat to a consistent warm temperature, use a space heater in unheated areas, and allow faucets to drip slightly during cold spells.
Age and Deterioration
Older pipes made of materials such as galvanized steel are prone to corrosion, rust, and severe wear over time. This weakens the pipe’s structural integrity and increases the risk of bursting. If you have outdated pipes, you should also get leak detection services to test for hidden water leaks, since outdated materials are prone to leaks.
Water Pressure Issues
High water pressure caused by faulty pressure regulators or sudden demand surges can cause pipes to burst under stress.
Ground Movement or Soil Conditions
The earth moves in mysterious ways, and when it does, the soil in Fenton can shift from temperature fluctuations, erosion, or settling. This puts stress on the water pipes, causing them to crack or burst.
Improper Installation or Maintenance
If you don’t take plumbing maintenance seriously or your pipes were poorly installed, it can lead to weak joints and cracks, increasing the likelihood of a burst pipe.
What to Do if You Have a Pipe Burst in Fenton, MO
Now, a pipe burst is definitely considered an emergency. And, as with all emergencies, you need a plan of action, and it’s extremely important to act quickly. Otherwise, you’ll risk significant water damage to your property. So, if you have a pipe burst in Fenton, MO, you must immediately:
- Shut off the water supply: Locate the main water supply shut-off valve in your home and turn it off to prevent more water from flowing out and causing damage.
- Drain the pipes: Open the faucets in your home to drain remaining water from the system and relieve pressure on the burst pipe.
- Turn off the electricity: If water is leaking near any electrical outlets or appliances, turn off the power to those areas to avoid electrocution.
- Contain the leak: Use buckets and towels to catch the water and minimize damage to your floor and other structural elements.
- Take inventory of damage to your home: photos or videos of the affected areas for insurance claims.
Next, you will want to contact a professional plumber to perform the necessary repairs. Typically, plumbers perform services like pipe leak repair and broken pipe repair. After you’ve called the plumber, it’s time to call us, Property Medic, for the necessary water damage restoration services. We offer a comprehensive range of techniques to successfully remove water, preventing additional damage to your home. We also offer drywall repair and patching, and mold remediation to ensure your home is not only restored but also safe from future hazards.
Warning Signs of a Broken Water Pipe
Okay, now that we’ve covered why pipe bursting occurs and what to do if it does, we’re going to cover the warning signs of a burst pipe in Fenton, MO. Look out for the following:
- Water pressure changes (drops or fluctuations)
- Wet spots or puddles on floors
- Unusual sounds from pipes
- Strange odors
- Increased water bills
- Discoloration on ceilings or walls
If you’re experiencing any of these warning signs, call a plumber and follow our emergency plan for a burst pipe in Fenton ASAP.
Dealing with the Aftermath of a Burst Water Pipe? Property Medic is Here to Save the Day!
At Property Medic, we’re more than just a restoration company; we’re a locally owned and operated business committed to helping you understand the causes, what to do, and the warning signs of a burst pipe in Fenton, MO.
We’re also committed to exceeding our customers’ expectations, so if you need restoration, we’re just a phone call away at (639) 200-2925. We’re proudly serving surrounding areas, including Kirkwood, Glendale, Warson Woods, and beyond.
