5 Common Causes of Burst Pipes and How To Prevent Them

Discovering water gushing from a burst pipe, seeping into every corner of your property, is an unwelcome surprise that can quickly turn a routine day into a soggy chaos. On the bright side, knowing what causes a pipe to burst can help prevent such disasters before they start. 

In a place like Cape Cod, where seasonal changes and other factors put stress on plumbing, understanding the common culprits behind broken water pipes is essential. Read on to learn more about the five leading causes of burst pipes and how to keep your plumbing in check – and your home dry. 

1. Freezing Temperatures 

Cape Cod’s temperate climate means that winters are usually mild, but occasionally, temperatures can drop low enough to freeze your water lines.

When the water inside the pipes freezes, it expands and creates enough pressure to crack or burst the pipe wall. This is particularly common in plumbing lines in unheated areas such as attics, basements, or along poorly insulated walls.

Prevention Tips: 

• Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas using foam, rubber, fiberglass, or other insulation materials.
• Allow faucets to drip during freezing weather to keep water moving.
• Seal cracks or openings around doors and windows to reduce exposure to cold air.

2. High Water Pressure 

Water pipes are designed to handle normal water pressure levels ranging from 30 to 80 PSI. Anything above 80 PSI can strain your pipes, leading to leaks and potential burst pipe damage. 

Prevention Tips: 

• Install a water pressure gauge to monitor your home’s water pressure.
• Adjust the pressure regulator to keep the pressure within a safe range.
• Regularly check for signs of leaks, which could indicate high water pressure.

3. Clogs and Blockages 

Over time, debris, grease, and other materials can build up in pipes, causing clogs. If left unaddressed, these clogs will only continue to grow, disrupting water flow and increasing pressure on the pipe walls. 

Prevention Tips: 

• Avoid pouring grease, oil, or other clogging materials down the drain.
• Regularly clean drains using natural solutions like baking soda and vinegar.
• Install drain screens to catch debris before it enters the pipes.

4. Old Age and Wear and Tear  

Older plumbing lines, especially those made of materials like galvanized iron or steel, are prone to deterioration due to rust and corrosion. This wear and tear can weaken the pipes and make them more susceptible to bursting. 

Prevention Tips:  

• Consider repiping your home if you have old or deteriorating plumbing.
• Replace old or corroded pipes with newer, more durable materials like copper or PVC.
• Schedule regular plumbing inspections to assess the condition of your pipes.

5. Corrosion 

Pipes are constantly exposed to environmental factors like sunlight and dust, which can lead to corrosion over time. Metal pipes are particularly vulnerable, as rust can develop on the surface and weaken the affected system’s joints and pipe seals. Over time, this corrosion can create cracks that eventually cause a burst water pipe.

Prevention Tips: 

• Regularly inspect pipes for signs of corrosion, such as discoloration or flaking.
• Replace corroded pipes to prevent further damage.
• Apply anti-corrosion coatings to protect metal pipes.

What Causes a Pipe To Burst in Hot Weather?

While freezing temperatures are a well-known cause of burst pipes, warmer weather can also pose a risk. During the summer, we tend to use more water for activities like lawn care, putting additional strain on our water systems.

Hard Water: High levels of minerals like magnesium, calcium, and iron in your water can lead to hard water buildup inside your pipes. This scale buildup increases corrosion and makes your pipes more prone to bursting, especially in the summer when usage increases.

Substandard Repairs: Summer is a popular and ideal time for fixing your plumbing, but poorly done repairs can lead to broken water pipes. Faulty soldering, pipe patches, or incorrect fittings can all contribute to a rupture.

Tree Root Intrusion: Tree roots naturally seek out water sources, making underground pipes a prime target. As roots grow, they can invade and eventually burst through your water lines, causing significant damage.

What To Do if a Burst Pipe and Water Damage Occurs

Understanding what causes a water pipe to burst allows you to take preventive measures to avoid the damage it can cause. However, if you experience a burst pipe, quick action is crucial to minimize the damage to your property. 

Take these steps to take control of the situation: 

1. Shut Off the Water Supply: Locate the main water shut-off valve and turn it off immediately.
2. Assess and Document the Damage: Take photos and notes for insurance purposes.
3. Contact a plumbing professional. Call a licensed plumber to repair the burst water pipe.
4. Enlist Burst Pipe Water Removal Services: Contact professionals to remove water, dry out your home, and repair any damage.

Get Your Home Back to Normal With Restoration 1 

At Restoration 1 of Cape Cod, we’re ready to provide fast and professional burst pipe water removal and water damage repair services. Let us help you overcome your plumbing emergency and return your home to its original condition—call us at 508-625-7189 to get started.