Burst pipes happen. Though they could strike at any time, they are more likely to hit when the weather is stormy. And as winter storms roll in, preparing yourself and your home is more important than ever.

Burst pipes can cause serious trouble for you and your family. A burst pipe can result in flooding inside your home, wet furniture, and a massive increase in water and electricity costs.

The key to being prepared to face a burst pipe is knowing what to do if it happens to you. Continue reading to learn the steps you need to take.

What Causes a Burst Pipe?

Many reasons can lead to a burst pipe, but a clogged drain is the most common explanation. A clog in your home’s plumbing system caused by a blocked sink or shower drain can lead to burst pipes that fill your house with water.

Other probable causes of pipe rupture include frozen water lines, tree roots or branches blocking the drainage system, faulty or broken heating equipment, and illegal plumbing.

How Often Do Burst Pipes Happen?

In the United States, bursting pipes are a constant problem, especially during the winter when water pressure is lower. They are thought to occur on an average of every three days.

5 Steps to Take After You Have Burst Pipes

Now that you’re beginning to understand what caused your pipe to break, it’s time to consider what you should do as soon as possible. Pay attention to these actions:

1. Turn the Electrical System Off

You must turn the electricity off first. This will stop any electrical damage from occurring while the water supply line is being shut off and repaired.

2. Turn Off the Water Supply

Turning off the water supply is the second thing you need to do. This is a simple process, but it can be challenging if you have a large water pipe burst. 

3. Check the Burst Pipe

The next step would be applying pressure on the pipe with a bucket and a plunger to stop further water leakage. An old towel or t-shirt will work just as well for this. Use sandbags or bricks to plug any holes in the pipe to confirm no leaks.

4. Call the Professionals

You must call a water damage restoration company if your home suffers from burst pipes. These companies will have the proper equipment and experience to handle the cleanup and repair. They will also be able to work with your insurance company to file a claim.

5. Document the Surroundings

It is essential to take specific steps to document everything if you are dealing with a burst pipe. Get as many measurements as you can and take pictures of the damage.

Then write what happened and what was damaged. Record the incident’s specific date, time, and place. Finally, gather any proof that can support your records.

Minimize the Damage!

For people and businesses, burst pipes can result in an instant problem since they can cause flooding, property damage, and even deaths. So if your pipes have burst, act fast to minimize the damage.

Shut off the water at the main valve and call a plumber. Turn on the faucets around the house to relieve pressure and help drain the system.

Be sure to take pictures and document the damage for your insurance company. With a little quick thinking and action, you can minimize the damage and get your home back to normal in no time.

Keep scrolling to discover more handy home tips and advice on this blog.

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