If you have ever had a pipe burst in your home, you know how disastrous it can be. Not only is it a huge mess, but it can also be very expensive to repair. Knowing the necessary steps to take when a pipe bursts can help minimize the damage and make repairs easier. That is why we have put together a number of things you can do in case you ever have to deal with a burst pipe.
1. Turn Off The Water
Turning off the water is the first and most important thing you need to do when a pipe bursts. This will help prevent further water damage and make repairs much easier. You will likely find the main water shut-off valve in your basement or utility room.
If the burst pipe is in a plumbing fixture, like a toilet or sink, you can turn off the water at the valve beneath the fixture. If you cannot find the shut-off valve or if it is not working, you will need to turn off the water at the main water supply for your home. Once the water is turned off, it is important to avoid using any plumbing fixtures in your home, as this can cause additional damage.
2. Drain The Remaining Water
Once you have turned off the water, you will need to drain the remaining water from the pipes. You can do this by opening up all the faucets in your home and allowing them to run until they are empty. You may also consider draining any water appliances, like your washing machine or dishwasher.
It is important to note that even after draining the remaining water, there may still be some residual moisture in the pipes. This is why it is important to take any wet items out of your home as soon as possible to prevent further damage. If you have a sump pump, you can also use this to help remove any remaining water from your basement or crawl space.
3. Locate The Pipe
Locating the burst pipe can be tricky, especially if the water has already caused extensive damage. However, it is important to find the pipe so that you can make the necessary repairs. Start by checking any exposed pipes in your home, like those in your basement or crawl space.
To find the location of the burst pipe, you can also look for any signs of water damage. This may include stains on your ceilings or walls, peeling paint, or warped floorboards. Once you have found the location of the burst pipe, you can begin making the necessary repairs.
Making repairs to a burst pipe can be difficult and expensive. However, taking the necessary steps as soon as pipe bursts can help to minimize the damage and make repairs easier.
4. Call A Plumber
Once you have taken care of the immediate situation, it is important to call a plumber to help with repairs. A plumber will be able to assess the damage and make the necessary repairs to prevent any further issues. They can also help you determine if there is any structural damage to your home and what steps need to be taken to correct it. Our team of professionals at Travis & Sons Plumbing & Rooter is ready to assist. We’re a dedicated plumbing service provider for customers in Fountain Hills, Mesa, and nearby areas of Arizona. Our plumbers can help you repair or replace burst pipes if you live in this vicinity.
5. Take Evidence For Insurance Claims
If your home is insured, you will need to take some time to gather evidence for your insurance claim. This may include taking photos of the damage, getting estimates from contractors, and keeping any receipts for repairs. Filing an insurance claim can be lengthy, but it is important if you want to be reimbursed for the damages.
6. Clean Up The Area
Once the repairs have been made, cleaning up the affected area is important. This may include removing any wet items, cleaning up mold or mildew, and repairing any damage to your home.
Finally, it is important to open windows and doors to help ventilate your home. This will help to prevent any mold or mildew from growing in the future.
Rely On The Pros
Taking the proper steps when a pipe bursts can help to minimize the damage and make repairs easier. Be sure to call a plumber, take evidence for insurance claims, and clean up the affected area. Most importantly, don’t forget to ventilate your home by opening windows and doors. At Travis & Sons Plumbing & Rooter, we provide various plumbing services, including repairing and installing pipes, water heaters, and sewer lines. Contact us today to request service.