3 ways To Prevent Water Damage From a Broken Pipe

5/5/2022 (Permalink)

Why Pipes Break and How To Avoid The Damage

Every homeowner in Retreat, NC, shares a common nightmare: having water in home walls and on floors due to broken pipes. Consider the three main reasons why pipes break and how to avoid the damage those breaks can cause.

1. Earth Shifting Can Lead to a Broken Pipe

Earthquakes can happen almost anywhere in the U.S. The seismic forces generated by the movement of the earth can easily break buried pipes and leave water in home spaces. Living in an area near an active fault line requires having a professional inspect your plumbing regularly to avoid an expensive pipe cleanup job. Additionally, nearby construction can cause shifting underground, which can lead to damaged pipes. Asking the construction crew to be wary of your pipes may help to minimize problems and avoid water damage repair.

2. Water Pressure Increasing Can Cause Bursts

Water pressure above 80 psi causes product warranties to be voided and insurance companies to cease covering damages. The closer you are to the water source, like a water tower or pumping station, the higher the pressure. Also, the pressure is highest at midday when everyone is at work. Installing a pressure relief valve is one good way to avoid this problem and properly regulate the water pressure in your home.

3. Temperatures Dropping Can Freeze Pipes

Freezing temperatures occur in many parts of the country, but especially in Retreat, NC. Fortunately, proper insulation can ensure freezing does not cause your pipes to break and pump water into home walls and throughout the rooms. Be sure to cover all outside valves with a fitted insulation cap and use pipe insulation or a blanket and straw for any exposed pipes, such as a sump pump discharge.
There are many reasons why your pipes might break, but with a little forethought, you can reduce the chances of having to deal with every homeowner's worst nightmare.