It only takes a few hours at 20 degrees F for exposed pipes to freeze. Even in warm states like Texas, a winter freeze can be enough to freeze water pipes. When this happens, pressure builds and can result in bursting, causing damage to your home. Pipes in attics, crawl spaces and outside walls are especially vulnerable because they tend to be exposed to cold air coming through utility line holes.
The best way to protect your pipes from freezing is by insulating them. Still, it’s not always possible to get good insulation around pipes. And sometimes, the temperatures are so cold, the pipes can freeze regardless. Below are some tips for handling a burst pipe in your Texas home.
Signs of a Water Pipe Bursting
Sometimes, you’ll notice the signs of a water pipe bursting before it causes damage to your home. Other times, it’s not until water starts leaking that you’ll notice the problem. Here are some signs to pay attention to:
- Changing water pressure
- Pipes making noises behind the walls
- Discolored, smelly water
- Puddles under sinks
- Water marks on walls or ceiling
- Unusually high water bill
Steps to Take When a Pipe Bursts
Whenever a pipe is called into question, it’s important to act fast. It doesn’t take much water to cause damage to the home. Here are the steps to follow if you think or know for sure that a pipe has burst.
Turn off the water and drain the faucets.
The first step is to turn off your water. The sooner you can do this, the greater chance you have of minimizing water damage. Most water shut-off valves are located near the water heater, in the crawl space or in the basement. Once the water is shut off, turn on the faucets to drain any remaining water in the pipes. This will help relieve pressure in your pipe system.
Locate the burst pipe.
The next step is to try and find where the burst pipe is. If you catch the leak early enough, you can put a bucket underneath to collect the dripping water. If you don’t notice anything significant, look for warning signs like water spots and soft spots on the walls and ceilings. No matter how big or small, burst pipes need immediate attention.
Call in a professional.
You may need to hire several professionals depending on the damage, such as a plumber, electrician and water damage restoration company. According to Home Advisor, most people pay an average of $200 and $1,000 to repair a burst pipe depending on its location, its type and the extent of the damage.
Texas Elite Restoration and Cleaning provides water cleanup and restoration services. Our teams respond quickly to minimize damage and prevent further problems. We can even help with repairs after the water has been cleaned up, such as by installing new flooring or fixing drywall. To schedule an immediate repair following a burst pipe, contact our professional crews today.
