A common fear for many homeowners is having their pipes burst. Pipes can sometimes be costly to fix and cause quite a bit of damage. When you know why pipes burst, you can be proactive in preventing water damage. Read on to learn what could cause your pipes to burst.
Extreme Cold Temperature
Most often, pipes burst during the winter season due to the extremely cold temperature changes. Ice will often freeze inside of a pipe, causing it to expand. It also increases the pressure and that pressure needs to escape somehow. As the pressure builds, the pipes burst.
How can you prevent pipes from freezing? Turn water faucets on periodically to allow a steady stream of water to escape. As a best practice for winter, leave faucets dripping slightly overnight, when the temperature drops, to avoid burst pipes and water damage.
Pipe Corrosion Can Cause Water Damage
While pipes are typically created to last a long time – usually decades – no pipe can last forever. Corrosion is a common occurrence that can lead to pipe damage. Building corrosion over time will result in pipes failing and water damage ensuing. Corrosion can be caused by a pH imbalance in the water. At first, it's a minor issue, but over time it takes its toll on water pipes.
Issues With Water Pressure
Make sure you maintain normal water pressure in your home to avoid damage. When the water pressure is too high, a pipe can burst. Because the pressure is increasing, it is causing strain on the pipes and will result in a rupture and water damage.
If you suspect your water pressure is too high, perform a test. Attach a pressure gauge to a sink faucet and turn on the spout to find the current pressure.
Cold Rooms With Pipes
Rooms in your home that are unheated, such as basement rooms, are at risk for water damage. For example, if your washing machine is in your basement, the pipes in this room are likely to burst if proper precautions are not taken. In this case, you'll want to insulate the pipes in the space or keep the room heated, especially during the colder months.
What To Do When Pipes Burst
If your pipes have burst and are causing water damage in your home, you need a team of professionals to help you clean up. A Nicer Reflection's technicians can handle any crisis you're going through and get your home back to a livable space in no time. Contact us today to learn how our team can come to your rescue.