WHAT CAUSES PIPES TO BURST: 8 REASONS FOR PIPE BURSTS AT YOUR HOME

What Causes Pipes to Burst: 8 Reasons for Pipe Bursts at Your Home

What Causes Pipes to Burst: 8 Reasons for Pipe Bursts at Your Home

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Experiencing a burst pipe can be one of the most alarming plumbing emergencies a homeowner can face. Not only can it lead to significant water damage, but it can also disrupt your daily life and incur costly repairs. Understanding the common causes of pipe bursts can help you take preventative measures and act quickly when issues arise. Here are eight reasons why pipes may burst in your home and how nGO Plumbing can be a best option when you need emergency plumbing services in Sydney.

Side view man working as plumber

1. Extreme Temperature Changes


One of the leading causes of burst pipes is extreme temperature fluctuations. When temperatures drop significantly, the water inside your pipes can freeze. As water freezes, it expands, putting immense pressure on the pipe walls.

How It Happens:


When temperatures fall below freezing, any standing water in uninsulated pipes can freeze.


    • The expansion of ice can cause pipes to crack or burst, especially if they are made of more brittle materials like PVC.



Prevention Tips:


    • Insulate Exposed Pipes: Use foam insulation or pipe sleeves on pipes located in unheated areas such as basements, attics, and crawl spaces.





    • Allow Faucets to Drip: During extreme cold spells, keep a faucet dripping slightly to maintain water flow and reduce pressure buildup.



2. Aging Pipes


Older plumbing systems are more susceptible to bursts due to wear and tear over time. Corrosion and deterioration weaken the pipes, making them prone to cracking or bursting under pressure.

How It Happens:




    • Over time, minerals in water can corrode metal pipes, leading to weak spots.





    • Older materials like galvanized steel or lead are particularly vulnerable to degradation.



Prevention Tips:


    • Regular Inspections: Schedule periodic plumbing inspections to assess the condition of your pipes.





    • Replace Aging Pipes: Consider upgrading to modern materials such as copper or PEX that offer greater durability and resistance to corrosion.



3. High Water Pressure

Excessively high water pressure can put undue stress on your plumbing system, leading to leaks and potential bursts. If your home experiences water pressure above 80 psi, it may be time to address the issue.

How It Happens:




    • High water pressure can strain joints and fittings, causing them to fail.





    • It can also lead to increased wear on fixtures like faucets and toilets.



Prevention Tips:


    • Install a Pressure Regulator: A pressure-reducing valve (PRV) can help manage water pressure entering your home.





    • Monitor Pressure Levels: Use a pressure gauge to regularly check your home’s water pressure.



4. Tree Roots


Invasive tree roots can penetrate underground pipes, causing blockages and eventually leading to bursts. As roots grow, they exert pressure on the pipes, which can result in cracks.

How It Happens:




    • Roots naturally seek out moisture and nutrients, often finding their way into sewer lines or drainage pipes.





    • Once inside, they can cause blockages that increase pressure within the system.



Prevention Tips:


    • Regular Inspections: Have your plumbing system inspected for root intrusion, especially if you have large trees nearby.





    • Use Root Barriers: Installing root barriers around trees can help prevent roots from encroaching on your plumbing lines.



5. Blockages and Clogs


When pipes become clogged with debris, grease, or foreign objects, the buildup can cause increased pressure within the system. If not addressed promptly, this pressure can lead to a burst.

How It Happens:




    • Grease buildup from cooking waste or hair clogs in bathroom drains create blockages that restrict flow.





    • Over time, these clogs can cause backups and increased pressure that lead to ruptures.



Prevention Tips:


    • Schedule Regular Drain Cleaning: Professional drain cleaning services can help remove build-up before it becomes a serious issue.





    • Mind What Goes Down Drains: Avoid flushing inappropriate items or pouring grease down sinks.



6. Poor Installation Practices


Improperly installed pipes can lead to weak points in your plumbing system that are more likely to fail under pressure. This includes poorly fitted joints or inadequate support for piping.

How It Happens:




    • If pipes are not installed according to code or best practices, they may not withstand normal operating pressures.





    • Incorrectly joined sections of piping are particularly vulnerable to leaks and bursts.



Prevention Tips:


    • Hire Qualified Professionals: Always engage licensed plumbers like nGO Plumbing for installations and repairs.





    • Ensure Compliance with Codes: Make sure that any plumbing work meets local building codes and regulations.



7. Sudden Changes in Water Flow


Sudden changes in water flow—such as when a faucet is turned on or off abruptly—can create shock waves within the plumbing system. This phenomenon is known as hydraulic shock or water hammer and can stress pipes over time.

How It Happens:




    • Rapid changes in flow create shock waves that travel through the piping system.





    • These shock waves can cause joints and fittings to loosen or fail over time.



Prevention Tips:




    • Install Water Hammer Arrestors: These devices absorb shock waves caused by sudden changes in water flow.





    • Open Valves Slowly: Encourage household members to turn faucets on and off gently to minimize sudden changes in flow.



8. Natural Disasters


Natural disasters such as earthquakes or heavy flooding can cause significant damage to underground plumbing systems. The shifting ground or excessive water pressure from flooding can lead to ruptured pipes.

How It Happens:




    • Earthquakes may shift soil and disrupt buried pipes.





    • Flooding increases external pressure on pipes that may already be weakened by age or corrosion.



Prevention Tips:


    • Post-Natural Disaster Inspections: After any natural disaster, inspect your plumbing system for signs of damage.





    • Consult Professionals for Repairs: Engage experts like nGO Plumbing for thorough inspections and repairs following a disaster.



Understanding the common causes of pipe bursts is crucial for every homeowner looking to protect their property from potential damage. By taking proactive measures—such as regular inspections, proper maintenance, and timely repairs—you can significantly reduce the risk of experiencing a burst pipe in your home.

If you find yourself dealing with a burst pipe or need assistance with any plumbing issue, don’t hesitate to reach out! nGO Plumbing offers reliable burst pipe installation services in Sydney, ensuring that your plumbing problems are handled swiftly and effectively. Contact them today for expert solutions tailored to your needs!

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