Most Common Causes of Burst Water Pipes

Why do pipes burst? Well, that’s a question that plumbers get asked a lot. And it’s not always an easy question to answer. 

If you’ve ever experienced a plumbing emergency, you know that your pipes are put through a lot on a daily basis. But even if you haven’t, it’s safe to say that your pipes go through a lot – especially if you live in an older home. Burst pipes can happen for a number of reasons, but there are a few that are more common than others. Knowing the causes can help you avoid burst pipe repairs and burst water pipes problems altogether, or at least be prepared for it if it does happen.

burst pipe repair in Northern Beaches

1. Frozen water pipes

One of the most common causes of burst pipes is freezing temperatures. When water freezes, it expands, which can put a lot of pressure on your pipes. If the frozen water happens to be in a pipe that’s already under pressure, the results can be disastrous.

2. Clogged drainage systems

Be sure to clear blocked drains. Clogs can also cause burst pipes. If a clog forms in a pipe, it can block the water flow and cause the water to back up. That backup of water can put a lot of pressure on the line and cause it to burst.

3. Structural damage to your home

Another cause of burst water pipes is structural damage to your home. This can be caused by several things, including poorly installed plumbing, faulty pipes, or even construction work that has damaged your home’s foundation.

4. Corrosion

Over time, the water flowing through your pipes can cause them to corrode, and that corrosion can weaken the pipes and make them more susceptible to bursting. This can lead to a number of problems, including leaks and poor water quality.
5. Incorrect installation of pipes and fittings

Wrongly installed pipes and fittings can lead to a number of problems. If not installed correctly, they can cause leaks which could lead to flooding. Not only is this a massive inconvenience, but it can also be quite dangerous. If you’re unsure how to correctly install pipes and fittings, it’s best to leave it to the professionals.

If you think your pipes may have burst, it’s important to make sure you know where your shut-off valves immediately and call a Northern Beaches plumber who knows how to handle any emergency repair with burst water pipe, identify the source of the problem and come up with a solution from main water pipe burst to a water pipe in the bathroom burst. 

Burst water pipes are often a homeowner’s worst nightmare. There are some things you can do to help minimize the risk of this happening. Inspect your plumbing system regularly for any leaks or cracks, and have a plumber check it out at least once a year. And finally, be prepared. Have a plan in place for what you will do if your water pipes do burst. With these tips, hopefully, you won’t have to worry about dealing with this type of disaster anytime soon.