A reliable plumbing system is integral to daily comfort and health, yet the lifespan of pipes is finite. Minor clogs, high water pressure, freezing temperatures, and more can quickly evolve into significant burst pipe water damage, mold growth, and headaches for homeowners. Understanding the causes behind such incidents is crucial for prevention and maintenance efforts. Yet when pipes burst, it’s time to seek professional burst pipe repair.
Residents of Vienna, VA, can turn to Hicks Plumbing for such services and more. Our highly-trained team can remedy any plumbing dilemma from burst pipe repairs to hydro jetting. We also recognize that some plumbing solutions can’t wait, so we offer 24-hour emergency services that work around your schedule. To learn more about our plumbing solutions, call (703) 803-7466 today!
Below, we discuss common causes of burst pipes:
Freezing
When temperatures plunge, the water in your pipes can freeze and expand. This ice strains your pipes and acts as a blockage, leading to excess pressure that can burst pipes. An unexpected cold snap is enough to freeze pipes in any climate region. Therefore, homeowners should take proper precautions to winterize water lines.
Corrosion and Rust
While pipes offer decades of reliability, corrosion and rust eventually lead to failure. Imbalanced pH or high mineral content water can slowly eat away at a pipe, wearing down its protective coating and exposing the raw iron underneath. Interaction with oxygenated water will cause it to rust, weakening the plumbing system and sometimes cracking and bursting pipes.
Clogs
Like ice in your pipes, when a clog occurs, the water flow continues to push against the blockage, straining pipes. If neglected, even a minor clog can snowball into a disastrous plumbing dilemma that necessitates professional burst pipe repair.
If you notice a clog, no matter how serious, you must clear it without delay. If you can’t remove it alone, employing professional services such as high-pressure water jetting can effectively clear blockages and save you from more expensive burst pipe repair costs down the line.
Tree Roots
Root systems extend deep underground and sometimes reach too close to pipes. Any moisture leakage can attract the roots, which then grow toward such fixtures. Unfortunately, pipes aren’t strong enough to withstand the pressure or invasion of tree roots and often burst in such circumstances.
High Water Pressure
While homeowners may gripe about low water pressure when it comes time to shower, excessively high pressure can damage plumbing systems. Pipes can withstand a certain amount of pressure (usually 30-80 psi); if the pressure exceeds 80 psi, your pipes may struggle to contain their water supply. Monitoring your water pressure can help it stay within a healthy range and prevent burst pipes.
Ground Movement
Nearby construction or seismic activity can displace pipes and subject them to high levels of strain, especially those buried shallow. Following any such events, pursue immediate action and emergency plumbing services.
Professional Burst Pipe Repair in Vienna, VA!
When pipe bursts strike, there’s no room for guesswork. With over 30 years of experience, Hicks Plumbing has the experts that Vienna, VA, residents can trust for reliable burst pipe repair services. With 24-hour services, we take the stress out of plumbing emergencies. To learn more about our plumbing solutions, call (703) 803-7466 today!