December 2, 2024

Jocuri

Mad about real estate

Residential property What Causes Damage to Water Pipes?

Pipes that have burst can cause extensive water damage to a home or business. Furniture, priceless possessions, and important documents can all be destroyed in a flood. The water damage can also lead to mold and mildew problems. Many insurance claims are made each year due to the damage caused by broken water pipes. In many cases, homeowner’s insurance will cover the damage but not what caused it. In order to prevent water damage caused by burst pipes, one needs to know what can cause a water pipe to break.

The following list outlines some common causes of damage to water pipes:

Frozen Pipes. If the temperature falls below the freezing point, there is a risk your pipes could freeze. Frozen pipes will crack and then burst spilling large amounts of water all over the floor.

Corrosion. If you have old pipes that are corroding, there is a risk that the pipe will crack and then burst. Corrosion can be caused by soil and water that corrodes the exterior metal and eventually works its way into the pipe leaving it weakened.

Aging Water Pipes. As water pipes age their strength and durability are diminished. They become more brittle and more prone to fractures. The older the pipes, the higher the likelihood they will break.

Physical Damage. If one is having construction work or renovations done in the home or on the property, and a water pipe is accidentally hit by a piece of equipment or tool, there is a chance the pipe could break open.

Too Much Pressure in Pipes. If your water pump is not functioning properly which leads to a build of pressure within the water pipes, it could cause the pipes to rupture and break.

Improperly Installed Water Pipes. If pipes are not installed properly, the result could be a break in the pipe. Professionals will make sure the pipes are correctly installed and the joints are tight and sealed properly.

Poor Quality Pipes. If you install pipes that are of a poor quality, there is a good chance that over time, they will breakdown and burst. A defective product will also result in a pipe breaking.

Long Term Crack. If there is a small crack in the pipe that is leaking over a long period, it will eventually expand due to water, pressure, and corrosion. The water in the pipe will eventually break through the crack resulting in a burst pipe.

If your pipes to break, enlisting the services of a professional contractor to repair the damage pipes would be the wisest decision. As well, you will most likely have to hire a cleaning company to come in and remove all of the water. To avoid a water pipe damage causing flooding of the home, it is important to be aware of all the conditions that can cause a break and then take the necessary measures to minimize the risky conditions.

For instance, you should make sure that your pipes are never exposed to temperatures below the freezing mark. They should also not be exposed to constant temperature fluctuations. As well, you should have your pipes inspected by a qualified professional plumber to make sure they are in good working condition and are not too old.

Flooding caused by water pipe damage can be a very stressful and messy experience. Not only can it involve a great deal of expense, but you could lose valuable family keepsakes. Taking the proper precautions and calling a professional in the event of pipe damage will make repair, clean up, and restoration, much easier and less stressful.