This Is What to Do if a Pipe Bursts in Your Home

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

pipe bursts and causes water damage in Tallahassee

This Is What to Do if a Pipe Bursts in Your Home

Every homeowner should know what to do if a pipe bursts in their house. Our basic guide here details the important steps that need to be taken. 

There are few things more relaxing than listening to the rhythmic splashing of water from a fountain. But, when the fountain of water is coming out of a burst pipe in your house, relaxation is the last thing on your mind. 

As the water pools around your ankles, you don't want to be caught short, wondering what the next step is. The faster you act, the less damage will be done. 

Luckily, we're here to save the day by teaching you what to do if a pipe bursts in your home. Armed with this knowledge, and our emergency contact details, you'll be able to tackle your next plumbing disaster like a pro.

Empty Your Pipes

If a pipe is leaking in your house, the first thing you have to do is stop the water from gushing out. Do this by turning off your house’s main water supply. Your main water shut-off valve is usually located near your water heater, in your basement, under the kitchen sink, or in your crawl spaces.

Once you’ve turned this off, you need to drain the remaining water in your pipes. Open your faucets and let them run until water stops coming out. Don’t forget to flush your toilets and shut off your hot water heater.

Call a Plumber

Before you take any further steps, call in a professional plumber to handle the repairs. Even if you have some DIY experience, trying to fix a burst pipe yourself often results in further damage.

A licensed plumber not only knows how to fix a leaky pipe, but they can also diagnose the root cause of the problem and make long-lasting repairs.

Document the Damage

It's important to take photos or videos of the burst pipe and resulting water damage. This can be used as supporting evidence for your insurance claim. Be sure to get a shot of the water flowing out the burst pipe before you shut off the main valve.

Take a look at this water damage timeline to learn what types of damage you should watch out for.

Take a good look through your homeowner’s insurance policy to see what it covers. Most policies will cover "sudden and accidental" water damage from a burst pipe. They don't cover negligent damage that happens gradually over time, like a leaking bathroom sink.

Call in the Clean-up Pros

Once the leak is under control, call in a professional water damage restoration crew. SERVPRO of Central Tallahassee are the experts when it comes to emergency water damage repair and restoration. 

Our highly trained specialists are available day and night to rescue your belongings from destruction. We will inspect your home for signs of water damage, extract the water, and remove any lingering odors. We know you have a lot on your mind, so we will also assist you with your insurance paperwork to ensure your claim is filed smoothly.

Take Preventative Measures

The most common reason for pipes to burst is if the water inside them freezes. Water expands when it freezes, and frozen water in a pipe can exert over 2,000 pounds of pressure per square inch.

The best way to prevent pipes from bursting is to insulate them. You should also disconnect unused water hoses and keep your home’s heating above 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

Now You Know What to Do If a Pipe Bursts in Your Home

Burst pipes are always inconvenient, but they don't have to lead to disaster. Knowing what to do if a pipe bursts in your house will help you plan ahead and prevent costly damage. 

You can rest easy knowing that the specialists at SERVPRO of Central Tallahassee are standing by, ready to respond to your water damage emergency.

Contact us today for all your fire or water damage needs.