How to Fix a Burst Water Pipe
Discovering a burst water pipe, burst water main, or any burst pipes around your property can be quite stressful. Waking up in the morning or coming home from work to a flood of water is undoubtedly not how you planned on spending your time that day. It can also be a painful addition to your water bill.
The important thing is to remain calm; a burst pipe is not the end of the world.
Follow these steps to take care of the problem and get your property back to its original shape as quickly as possible.
Causes of Burst Water Pipes
There are several causes of burst water pipes, including:
When the water inside the pipes freezes, it expands and causes the pipe to burst. This is a common issue in regions that experience extreme cold weather conditions, as the frozen water can exert significant pressure on the pipes, leading to cracks and eventually bursts.
Over time, tree roots can grow and infiltrate your pipes, causing them to break. This usually happens when the roots search for water sources and find their way into small cracks or joints in the pipes. As they continue to grow, the roots can cause the pipes to crack further and eventually burst.
A sudden increase in water pressure can cause pipes to burst, especially if they are old or damaged. This can be due to a malfunctioning pressure regulator, blocked pipes, or even water hammers caused by rapidly closing valves or taps.
A damaged or weakened pipe can give way under normal water pressure, leading to a burst. This can occur due to general wear and tear, manufacturing defects, or previous damage that has weakened the pipe’s structural integrity.
If a pipe becomes blocked, the water pressure behind the blockage can build up and cause the pipe to burst. This can be a result of debris, sediment, or foreign objects lodged within the pipe, obstructing the normal flow of water.
Over time, pipes can corrode or weaken, making them more susceptible to bursting. Older pipes made from materials like galvanised steel or cast iron are particularly prone to corrosion and rust, which can weaken the pipe walls and make them more vulnerable to damage.
If pipes were not properly installed, they may be more prone to bursting. This can occur when pipes are not adequately supported, causing them to sag and strain under the weight of the water they carry. Additionally, incorrect joint connections or poorly welded seams can create weak points in the pipe system, increasing the risk of a burst.
Neglecting to perform regular maintenance on your plumbing system can result in pipes becoming damaged or weakened, making them more likely to burst. Maintenance tasks like cleaning out sediment from water heaters, inspecting for leaks or damage, and ensuring that pipe insulation is in good condition can all help to prevent burst pipes.
For Burst Pipes in Perth, You Can Count on Tunnel Vision
Having a burst pipe is never a fun experience, but Tunnel Vision is here to help everything go as smoothly as possible for you. We are experts in pipe relining, trenchless and non-invasive repair techniques, so we won’t need to dig large trenches on your property to access pipes.
We are proud to work with both residential and commercial clients throughout Western Australia.
Our friendly team is on duty 24 hours a day, so you’ll always have access to our emergency plumbing services when you need them most. Get in touch with us today to book a routine or emergency plumber.
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Whether you require emergency response, scheduled maintenance, pipeline inspections or trenchless rehabilitation services, the Tunnel Vision team is ready to assist. Contact us today to discuss your project, request a quote or speak with our experienced team about the right solution for your site or property.
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