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When fluids within pipes freeze and expand during winter, they put pressure on the tubes, often causing them to crack or burst. Some other reasons for bursting may include tree root infiltration, blockages, and high water pressure. When this happens, it’s important that you know how to minimize potential risks and damages until a professional plumbing team arrives. Here’s what to do when a pipe bursts.

4 Steps to Take When Pipes Burst

1. Shut Off the Water Supply

As soon as you notice burst pipes, shut off the main water supply to your home. This will minimize electrical shock hazards and prevent water damage from worsening. You can find the valve in your basement, crawl space, or in a metal compartment near the road. To shut off the water, turn the wheel handle to the right until it won’t turn anymore. 

2. Call an Emergency Plumbing Service

Repairing burst pipes requires expertise and special equipment, such as a lead-free solder and torch kit. As these can be expensive and dangerous to work with, it’s best to leave the job to a plumbing service. They will remove the damaged pipe segment and cut a new segment before soldering it to your existing plumbing. 

3. Drain the Taps 

plumbingWhile waiting for your emergency plumber to arrive, open the hot and cold taps to drain any remaining fluids. This will relieve pressure in the pipe to prevent further damages. It also keeps any residual water in the main line from freezing. 

4. Call Insurance & Take Photos

Call your homeowner’s insurance company to report the incident and start filing a claim. Take photos of water damage, such as indoor flooding and warped flooring. Send them to your insurance company as proof so that you’ll receive the highest possible amount of coverage for repairs and belonging replacements. 

 

When a pipe bursts on your property, call the team at Niebuhr Plumbing & Heating. They provide 24-hour emergency plumbing services to homes throughout La Crosse County, WI. Call (608) 782-1700 anytime you need plumbing repairs and visit the website to learn more about how they can keep your system functional. 

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