Few things in life are as inconvenient as a water pipe break. From possible flooding to costly repairs, a burst pipe is never fun to deal with. Here at Free Flow, we know how difficult it can be for a homeowner or business to get things together after a pipe breaks or bursts. There are many reasons a pipe breakage may occur, and we’ve seen them all. Your pipes will normally display some telltale signs before breaking. If you have a broken water pipe under your house or a burst pipe in your basement, the expert plumbers at Free Flow Inc. are sharing what causes pipes to burst and how to prevent this from happening again in your home or business.
Why Do Pipes Burst?
If you’re wondering, “Why do water mains break or why do pipes burst?” there are several reasons that can cause this headache-inducing occurrence, ranging from the weather and environmental changes to physical trauma to your plumbing system. If you think there may be a problem, now is a good time to have a professional visit your property and perform a personalized pipe maintenance service.
Unfortunately, there’s never a good time to deal with broken water pipes. You don’t want a pipe to burst in the winter, because dealing with frozen water can be a nightmare. In the warmer months, you run the risk of your broken pipes causing terrible odors, mold, and possible insect infestations. To avoid some of the headaches that come with broken water pipes during any season, we’re sharing a few of the most common reasons why they break.
Freezing
Cold weather is one of the most common reasons for burst pipes. In fact, according to Consumer Reports, burst pipes are among the most common causes of property damage in the winter, sometimes causing up to $5,000 in property damage. So, what causes the pipes to burst in the winter? Cold winters bring frozen temperatures, and these temperatures freeze water. When ice builds up and expands in your pipes, so does pressure. When the pressure becomes too much, the pipe will burst. Fortunately, you can take steps to winterize your pipes. Pipes in unheated spaces like basements, attics, and garages are most at risk, but even pipes under your cabinets can freeze. To prevent this, try:
- Keeping your garage door closed
- Insulating your pipes
- Open cabinets to allow warmer air to circulate
- Let water drip from a faucet served by exposed pipes
- Leave the heat on if you’re planning on being away from your home
Tree Roots
Probably the rarest occurrence, tree root encroachment near your water lines may lead to cracked, broken, or burst pipes. In most cases, your pipes are not strong enough to stop the tree roots from wrapping around the pipeline. This can cause blockages and cracks. To help prevent this from happening, try planting new foliage away from your underground water lines.
Blocked Pipes
When a clog occurs within your pipes, it can cause pressure to build up within those pipes. As we know from above, too much pressure causes a break. Your pipes can become clogged by several things like hair, toilet paper, oil, food, and more. When a clog occurs in your pipes, your drains and toilets may back up, and this can cause a mess and some serious health risks. To prevent this from happening, be aware of what you’re flushing down your drains.
High Water Pressure
Water pressure is another common cause of pipe breakage. Intense water flow can cause pipes to expand to the point that they burst. The optimal water pressure for most home water pipes should be between 40 to 45 psi and never exceed 60 psi. Your water pressure can rise for several reasons. If you suspect your water pressure is dangerously high from impairments in your pipes, call on a professional plumber and schedule an inspection.
Old Pipes
Sometimes, a pipe can burst because it is too old. Over the years, your pipes can erode, causing cracks, leaks, and breaks. Pipes that are made of steel are more susceptible to corrosion, causing them to narrow and ultimately slowly burst open. To prevent this from happening, be sure to schedule regular pipe maintenance to keep everything flowing smoothly.
If you live in or around Bucks or Montgomery County, PA, and think your water pipe is broken on your residential or commercial property, contact us at (215) 416-6111.
