Burst Pipe Repair Service in Memphis
A burst pipe is one of the most common plumbing emergencies homeowners experience. Not only is it an unexpected inconvenience that prevents you from using your plumbing system, but a burst pipe can rapidly become a hazardous and extremely complicated problem to fix. Even seemingly minor burst pipes can cause serious structural damage to your home and waste gallons of water. Worse, if the issue is left untreated, it can make your family sick by encouraging the growth of mold and creating a vulnerable spot for other harmful pests to invade your space. Understanding what causes pipes to burst and learning how to recognize the signs can help you prevent a minor issue from developing into a costly nightmare.
Causes of Burst Pipes
Burst pipes can be caused by any of the following issues:
- Frozen pipes. When the temperatures drop below freezing, any accumulated water in your plumbing system can freeze, expanding in volume by roughly 9%. This increases the pressure from the inside of the pipes from approximately 40 pounds per square inch to an incredible 40,000 pounds per square inch. Such an exponential pressure increase then causes the pipes to burst. Attics, garages, basements, and other unheated areas of your home tend to be the most common spots for burst pipes because they typically have exposed or poorly insulated plumbing.
- Clogged pipes. Any number of foreign objects can create clogged pipes, from hair in the shower drains to grease in the kitchen sink. Clogged pipes can eventually force used water and waste to return into your home, making an ideal habitat for mold, bacteria, and viruses that can cause respiratory issues or other health concerns. If a pipe clogs, your water pressure will continue to increase until your pipes can no longer accommodate the pressure and burst.
- Outdated pipes. Pipes installed prior to the 1970s were constructed of steel or galvanized iron, which is prone to rusting and decaying over time. This corrosion weakens the walls of the pipe and causes buildup. The decreased space within the pipe causes water pressure to increase while wall strength decreases, a combination that eventually results in burst pipes. If your home is over 50 years old, you should have your plumbing system examined to determine if it needs to be replaced.
Signs of a Burst Pipe
Although some burst pipe situations involve coming home to find a flooded house, most cases present certain warning signs in advance of a catastrophic failure. Warning signs may include:
- No water flows from your faucets, indicating a frozen pipe.
- Reduced water pressure.
- Bulges or condensation forming on your pipes.
- Dripping or leaking pipes.
- Puddles of standing water on your floors or around the exterior of your home.
- Water marks on your ceiling or walls, particularly in the bathroom or laundry room.
- Discolored or foul-smelling water.
- Debris in your water.
- Strange noises when running your water, such as whistling from water attempting to force through a constricted area of pipe or bubbling as air enters the plumbing system.
- Dripping noises, which suggest that a leak has spread behind your walls.
- Unusually expensive water bills without an increase in consumption.
Protect Your Home and Your Family – Fix a Burst Pipe Immediately
Burst pipes can be absolutely devastating for your home, your bank account, and even your health. However, addressing the issue before it becomes an emergency can help you minimize the devastation. If your home displays any of the signs listed above, contact Premier Plumbing and Mechanical right away to schedule a consultation with our team. We are dedicated to providing the highest quality service and exceptional customer care. Our experienced and knowledgeable plumbers can handle any issue causing your pipes to burst, from repairing or replacing damaged sections to improving your home with an updated plumbing system.
