What Causes Water Pipes to Burst?

No one likes to deal with burst pipes and water damage in the middle of the holidays or the peak of winters. So, what causes your pipes to burst? Well, it occurs because of the cold air. The air reaching the pipes is much colder than summer days. This massive change causes your pipes to burst.

Are you still confused? Read further to understand the causes.

Cause of Bursting Pipes

For starters, a freezing environment causes pipes to shrink. Of course, the change is hard to notice. Also, water expands in winters, and that creates pressure on the pipes. Since water and pipes respond to winters differently, it causes your pipes to burst.

Based on the quality of your pipes, they can get damaged or start to leak from one or more areas. By preventing the water from freezing, you can overcome an unexpected problem.

Signs of Frozen Pipes

You know a pipe is frozen when no water comes out of your faucets. When you observe this, check your basement for leaks.

Also, make sure that your house has a good water supply. You can also check your external pipes for leakage. If everything is in good condition, you must be facing frozen pipe problems.

Prevent Water Damage

You can prevent water damage by taking certain preventive measures, including:

Allow Water to Trickle

You can open one or two faucets and prevent the water from freezing.

Install Heat Tape

Heat tape can insulate your pipes. You can install it on pipes exposed to freezing air. This way, your pipes will not contract during the winter season.

Disconnect Hoses

Faucets in your yard or garden can also freeze. However, you can disconnect your hose, allowing the water to drain from the hose. This will lower the risk of freezing. On top of that, make sure to install a faucets cover on external faucets to insulate and protect them.

Keep Your House Warm

If cold air is circulating in your house, it’s tricky to prevent your pipes from freezing. You need to maintain a temperature of 32 degrees in your house. This way, the air in your house stays warm and keeps your pipes from freezing.

Call an Expert

If you notice any signs of frozen pipes, you can call a professional for a thorough inspection. Once they identify the problem, they will guide you and provide appropriate solutions.

Bottom Line

If you want to prevent water damage in your home, you need to work on the causes of this problem. Keeping your pipes well-insulated and ventilated will minimize the impact of weather change on your pipes.

Experts like ServiceMaster Restoration By Cross can help you secure your pipes before winter. We can also help you identify problematic pipes and change them before they burst.