There’s no telling when a water pipe will break, but regular inspection of your pipelines can help you solve issues as they appear. Telltale signs of a damaged pipe include a sudden increase in your water bill, smelly or discolored water, and mold growing near or around the pipe.

When these problems aren’t addressed as soon as they are noticed, it’s only a matter of time before a pipe break occurs. When this happens, don’t panic! Learn about the indications of a broken pipe and how it can be handled.

Signs of a Pipe Leak
Puddle Formation
Wet Stains on Walls and Ceilings
A Sudden Increase in Water Bills
Changes in Water Pressure
Smelly Water

What to Do if a Pipe Bursts

While major repairs are best handled by professionals, there are some things you can do to mitigate water damage.
Turn off the water supply in the event of a breakage.
Remove residual water from faucets to get rid of some of the pressure from the plumbing system.
Open doors and windows for better airflow to dry pipes faster. Circulate warm air to speed up the drying process.
For a temporary fix, use a repair sleeve on the hole to keep the water in the pipe. You can also seal the leak by clamping together a piece of rubber covered with a block of wood. However, these are only band-aid solutions; you still need to call a plumber.
Identifying and addressing a burst pipe promptly is crucial to minimizing damage. Here are the next steps to take after turning off the main water supply and draining the faucets:

1. LOCATE THE BURST PIPE
To identify the location of the burst, check for water stains on walls, ceilings, or floors. Listen for the sound of running water, as this can help you pinpoint the affected area.
If you're unable to visually locate the burst pipe, consider using a pipe locator or consulting with a professional plumber for assistance.
2. TURN OFF ELECTRICITY
If the burst pipe is near electrical outlets, appliances, or the electrical panel, turn off the electricity in that specific area or, if necessary, the entire house.
Water and electricity are a dangerous combination, and taking this precaution can prevent electrical hazards.
3. COLLECT LEAKING WATER
Place buckets, towels, or other containers beneath the burst pipe to collect leaking water. This helps prevent water damage to your property and belongings.
If there's a significant amount of water, consider using a wet-dry vacuum to remove excess water and speed up the drying process.
4. CALL A PROFESSIONAL PLUMBER
While temporary measures can be taken, it's crucial to call a professional plumber to assess the situation and make the necessary repairs.
A plumber has the expertise and tools to identify the extent of the damage, replace the damaged section of the pipe, and ensure the plumbing system is functioning correctly.
5. DOCUMENT THE DAMAGE
Take photographs of the burst pipe, the affected areas, and any water damage.
This documentation can be useful for insurance claims or when working with a professional plumber. It provides a clear record of the situation and the steps taken to address the burst pipe.

Call Us for Repairs Following Water, Fire, or Mold Damage

Call the experts at ServiceMaster by LoveJoy at (678) 293-0297 or schedule an appointment online. Be prepared to offer as many details about the situation and remember to document the damage yourself as well. This information will be helpful during the claims process with your insurance company.