Burst Pipes

People living in areas with cold weather know the importance of watching out for burst pipes, especially during winter. Most pipes burst due to water freezing, which results in exerted pressure in the pipes.

What most people don’t know is that a pipe burst can occur any time – even in summer. This is a huge problem affecting most homeowners around Van Nuys, California. Burst pipes can cause mild to severe water damage, and that’s why it is recommended for all homeowners to regularly inspect their pipes and fix any noticeable damage that may lead to bursting.

Call Twin Home Experts today at (877) 941-1640 to receive a commitment-free inspection. We proudly service the Los Angeles County area. 

Below are the main causes of burst pipes:

Extreme Cold Weather:
It’s obvious that cold temperature contracts things but when it comes to pipes, that’s not the case. Ice has more volume so when it forms in a pipe, the pipes expands and builds up pressure. Since the increased pressure needs to escape, the pipe will burst if there is a weak joint.

Rusty Pipes:
Although pipes are made of durable, long-lasting materials, it doesn’t mean they will last forever. Eventually after years of wear, tear, and rust, the pipes become vulnerable to bursts. The rate at which your pipes wear out highly depends on the material they are made of and the condition of the water in the pipes.

Hard Water:
This refers to the high content of minerals such as calcium and magnesium in the water. Although the minerals are safe for human consumption, they are harmful to your pipes. The minerals can build up in the faucets and the pipes, slowing down your water flow. In the worst case scenario, the minerals can corrode the pipes causing small holes that may lead to water leaks.

Poor Pipe Installation:
Badly fitted or soldered pipe connections can cause pipe bursts. So if you notice issues with your pipe connection when inspecting your house, don’t hesitate to call us to fix the issue before it can escalate into burst pipes.

Movement / Water Hammer:
If your water pipes are not firmly secured, they can move or clang in the walls or floors when water is turned off and on (also known as water hammer). The pipes are subjected to moving back and forth, gradually weakening the pipe joints until they burst due to pressure.

In colder climates, there are straightforward recommendations to protect pipes that mainly focus on keeping them warm to prevent freezing and expansion. In warmer climates like southern California, ensuring your pipes are in their best shape is the best way to avoid bursts. Here are a few tips to protect your pipes in environments where freezing is less common:

Professional Inspections: If you’re unsure of the health of your pipes, let a certified plumber take a closer look. A expert evaluation can determine if your pipes were installed properly or are in need of replacement due to wear and tear. Detecting a hole or leak early can help avoid a full-blown burst.

Hard Water Treatment: Hard water can lead to a corrosive build-up of minerals in your pipes. Treating the hard water can lessen the harmful effects and prolong the life of your plumbing. A water descaler is a device that alters the structure of the water, decreasing the buildup of scale deposits without stripping away the beneficial minerals. They are available in a variety of sizes and price ranges depending on the needs of your home and budget.

Lower the Hot Water Heater Temps: The mineral buildup occurs more frequently in the hottest water. Decreasing the temperature can slow down the process and thus slow down the accumulation.

Insulate Vulnerable Pipes: Homes in warmer climates are often built with pipes close to the exterior walls versus inside an insulated part of the home. An unexpected cold snap can put these pipes at risk of freezing, expanding and bursting. Wrapping pipes in heat tape is a DYI solution but consulting a plumber for the best method is recommended.

If you have a burst pipe, you need to first identify the main cause of the problem. You can contact us to inspect your plumbing system to check on the pressure of your water supply pipes as well as make all the required adjustments.  Twin Home Experts can also help remove water and clean up your home in case of pipe bursts.