There’s nothing quite like properly operating plumbing lines and drains. Sometimes, though, we forget about them altogether since they’re working so well. At one point or another, everyone experiences plumbing problems. Unfortunately, one of those problems is leaking or busted pipes. Winter is on the way, and that means more than just snow days and Christmas are coming. With cold weather comes common plumbing issues, and we’re going to tell you how to handle them. You might wonder what causes pipes to burst. Well, there are many things that can cause this. In today’s post, we’re going to tell you what to do about a busted pipe, what causes it, and how to prevent it from happening in the future.
What Causes Busted Pipes?
Freezing is one of the leading causes of busted pipes. Especially in Western North Carolina, you need to keep freezing pipes in mind. Why do pipes freeze? Well, when the pipe gets below freezing, the water and ice inside expand, and the pipe doesn’t have that extra room to stretch. Depending on what kind of plumbing material your home has, this may not be an issue. For example, PEX plumbing is superior to metal or PVC plumbing because it has the ability to expand and contract with the hot and cold. Now, if you’re pipes are properly insulated, this most likely isn’t an issue. If you have galvanized steel, cast iron, or copper pipes, you should consult a professional about having your lines insulated.
Another leading cause of pipe busting is corrosion. Over time, pH, water content, and chemicals can lead to corrosion of the interior of the pipe. After this goes on for long enough, the pipe can deteriorate to the point of busting. The already weakened pipe can be pushed past the point of no return with a clog or even slight movement. Other causes include clogs and root damage.
What To Do About A Busted Pipe In Your Home
When a pipe bursts in your house, you need need to deal with it before it causes any extensive damage. The first thing you need to do is turn off the main water supply. You don’t want to inundate the plumbing lines with new water that can leak and cause further issues. Once the water supply is cut off, you should mop up the excess water to prevent any damage. Cleaning up the water immediately will prevent mildew and mold from forming as well.
If the busted pipe is in the crawlspace or attic and you’ve turned off the water supply, bring in a heater or fan to help dry out any residual moisture. If possible, try to seal a busted pipe with some rubber or tape until you can call a plumber.
Call The Pros
So, now you know what to do about a busted pipe. At the end of the day, the best course of action when you have a plumbing leak or busted pipe is to call a plumber. At Autry Plumbing, we are here for you. Let us help you with any plumbing needs you may have.
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