Frozen & Burst Pipe Cleanup

What causes a pipe to burst?

With the ability to spew hundreds of gallons of water from a single burst pipe, plumbing disasters can be devastatingly destructive and leave costly damage in their wake. Being most common in the winter, especially when temperatures drop quickly, this water will flash freeze inside of the pipes. When water freezes, it expands. The force of the expanding water can be enough to tear through a pipe wall or undo a weak fitting between pipes, leading to disaster.

This isn’t the only reason that a pipe can burst, however, while most common in the winter, a pipe may burst at any time of the year. Rust can weaken pipes until they burst from simple wear and tear, or mineral build-up from hard water can cause blockages within the pipes, building up pressure like a ticking time bomb. Poor installation can also be a factor. If the pipes are weakly fitted together or improperly insulated, it could lead to problems in the future.

What happens after a pipe bursts?

After a water event, the insurance agency that covers the property should be contacted. The insurance company may refer you to a restoration company they worked with in the past, and work will begin shortly after the pipe has been repaired and the bulk of the water has been removed. Once this has been done, the drying and dehumidification process begins, pulling the water that has seeped into walls, floors and ceilings out and leaving the property dry and structurally sound.

When the dehumidifiers and industrial air movers have been carried out, the restoration process can begin within the building. The crew of experienced professionals will take care of it all, from drywall to fresh coats of paint, making sure you are left with a home you can live in.

If your home or business has suffered from a burst pipe, reach out to your local HomePro Match expert!