The mere thought that a pipe could burst in the house and cause a water leak can be scary. It is not something that happens often, so when it does happen, many homeowners don’t know what to do.
But don’t worry, Bynum & Sons Plumbing is here to help you handle the situation!
The most important thing you can do is mitigate and quickly limit the damage that has already been done. Read on and find out how to do it!
Turn Off the Main Water Supply and Drain the Faucets
The first thing you need to do after the pipe burst is turn off your water supply. The sooner you do it, the less damage will be done.
Homeowners usually know where the water shut-off valve is located and how to turn it off. But if you don’t, you will most likely find it close to your water heater, in your basement, or the crawl space.
When water is turned off, drain the leftover water in your faucets. This will reduce the pipes’ pressure, which will stop the water from leaking and prevent further freezing if it’s cold outside.
Then also flush the toilets several times to drain the water there. And as a precaution, it is best to cut off the electricity as well, in case water comes in contact with any sockets or fuse boxes.
Find the Burst Pipe
Now you can try to find out where the burst pipe is. You should look for signs of leaks in every room and when you find them, put a bucket underneath to catch the dripping water.
If it’s a small crack, you can try to patch it up temporarily. You can use wood, rubber, or a clamp. It won’t stop the leak for long, though, but just until your plumber arrives.
If the main water pipe has broken, it must be professionally and promptly repaired regardless of the scope of the damage. In any case, it is best to contact your plumber to fix the pipe.
Call a Plumber In
Call in the experts to handle the repairs as soon as possible. Your plumber will take care of the pipes and the electrician will handle the electrical system if it’s damaged.
Nothing can replace an experienced professional. A plumber will conduct a reliable and quality repair, and if you DIY it, the pipe may soon break down again.
With a reliable local plumbing company, you will get skilled, licensed, and knowledgeable professionals who will ensure your pipes are in top condition and last for a long time.
Document the Damage for an Insurance Claim
If you are thinking of filing an insurance claim, then make sure to take close-up photos of the affected areas and of everything that has been damaged due to the pipe burst. Use the measuring tape to indicate how high the water has reached and take pictures from different angles. You can also turn on the water for a moment to film the leak.
Usually, microbes and mold will show up within 3 days of the burst, and this is the time within which you have to file a claim. Find out what your insurance policy covers and get an expert to check your policy before you start your insurance claim.
Don’t worry about the number of photos. The more you take, the easier it will be for you to get compensation.
Dry Out and Disinfect Wet Areas to Prevent Mold Growth
If a broken pipe has flooded your home, you need to drain wet areas as soon as possible. The longer the water is in the house, the greater the risk of mold growth and more extensive damages. You should keep your doors and windows open and let the warm air in.
Other than that, try to keep everything as is until the arrival of the insurance company so that their employees can determine the extent of damage and the quality of damaged items.
Conclusion
Having your pipes burst can be stressful and damaging, but by following the above tips, you will avoid more serious consequences of water damage. And once your plumber arrives, they will take care of all the rest.
You can also take some steps to prevent the pipes from bursting, such as adding insulation to unheated areas with pipes or to the pipes themselves, or by calling your plumber for regular inspections.
If you need a local expert to inspect your pipes or conduct water leak repair, don’t hesitate to give Bynum & Sons Plumbing a call!