The Primary Causes of Burst Water Pipes

Burst water pipes are a huge problem in many homes in Texas and Oklahoma. These accidents can cause serious damage to properties, costing homeowners hundreds or even thousands of dollars in repair and restoration bills.

It is important that you familiarize yourself with the main causes of broken water pipes so that you can prevent it from happening in the first place.

Frozen water – The most common reason why water pipes burst is when the water flowing inside it freezes during cold winter months. If you have not taken the necessary measures to insulate your pipes or to keep them warm, they are at risk of breaking due to the pressure exerted by freezing water. When the water turns into ice, it expands, causing tremendous pressure on the pipes. It doesn’t really matter if your pipes are made of plastic or iron; if the pressure is high enough, they will surely break.

If you don’t have winterized pipes, it is recommended to leave a little water trickling from your faucets during snowy months. Placing a space heater near exposed pipes can also help keep them from freezing.

Old pipes – Old pipes that are not maintained properly can experience blockages due to sediments, rust particles, and other impurities collecting inside. This, on top of the pipes already being too weak to handle high pressure, can result in bursting. A certified plumber or restoration professional might recommend installation of a pressure-limiting valve in your system so that you’ll be able to control the amount of pressure flowing through your pipes. The experts can also let you know if your system needs upgrading.

Tree roots – Pipes running outdoors can also break due to the pressure exerted by the roots of trees or shrubs. You can avoid this by placing potted plants instead in areas where pipes are laid underground.

To learn more about preventing burst water pipes in your home, please call LMS Restoration at 903-229-4846. Our service area includes the city of Paris and surrounding communities in the state of Texas and Oklahoma.