A Burst Pipe Could Be Destroying Your Home
Sudden Water Stains, Dripping Ceilings, Or Skyrocketing Bills?
A Burst Pipe Could Be Destroying Your Home
A busted pipe seldom bursts without warning. More often, Ohioans first notice the subtle signs of a burst pipe, such as a mildewy water stain on a ceiling, unexplained dampness or an inexplicable spike in utility costs. By the time these symptoms are noticed, major damage could be occurring behind walls, in ceilings and other areas inaccessible to the naked eye.
Northeast Ohio’s freezing winters and aging plumbing are a recipe for burst pipes to wreak major havoc. However, if homeowners can detect early warning signs, they can quickly act to prevent allowing a small leak to turn into a full-blown flood.
The Destructive Nature Of Burst Pipes
A burst pipe does not leak; rather, it sprays water into a home at a powerful rate of speed. Hitting walls, ceilings, floors, and insulation at high pressure, the water causes water damage.
A small rupture can spray hundreds of gallons of water into a home in a matter of minutes.
Pipe bursts have the potential to create catastrophic damage to Northeast Ohio homes in Cuyahoga Falls, Fairlawn, Ravenna, Wadsworth, Stow, and surrounding areas. Causes can range from freezing temperatures, aging materials, and fluctuations in water pressure.
Pipe bursts that aren’t remedied fast can lead to extensive damages by weakening building materials, saturating electrical components, and impacting indoor air quality.
Signs Your Pipe May Be Burst
Water stains on ceilings or walls
Stains, discoloration, bubbling paint, or sagging drywall can all indicate water has been present behind the surface. Water stains may be located some distance from the point where a pipe actually failed.
Dripping or leaking ceilings
If the ceiling is actively dripping, there is a large amount of water above a finished ceiling. An actively dripping leak is most commonly caused by a failed or actively leaking pipe.
Sudden spikes in water bills
If your water bill suddenly skyrockets, it’s because thousands of gallons are being wasted. If your bill increases without any changes in household usage, it could be the result of a hidden leak or burst pipe.
Mold or musty odors
Persistent moisture and dampness can create the perfect conditions for mold growth. Musty odors are often a telltale sign of hidden water damage that’s been present for longer than realized.
Reduced water pressure
A sudden drop in water pressure throughout the home is another sign that a pipe may be damaged and water is escaping before it reaches a fixture.
Causes Of Burst Pipes In Northeast Ohio
Regional factors that make burst pipes more likely include:
- Cycles of freezing and thawing that expand and contract pipes
- Older plumbing systems that have more brittle pipe joints
- Uninsulated pipes in basements, crawl spaces and exterior walls
- Corrosion from minerals in the water supply
- Rapid pressure changes during winter cold snaps
Considering that many Northeast Ohio homes were built several decades ago, more of them are susceptible to pipe failure when extreme weather hits.
The Dangers Of Ignoring Warning Signs
Water damage can spread silently and quickly. While it’s true the symptoms can seem relatively isolated, the fact is water may also be rotting out insulation, soaking into framing members, and damaging electrical wires behind walls in the same instant.
Failure to act on the warning signs of a burst pipe can lead to:
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- Massive structural repairs
- Mold remediation and mold health problems
- Destroyed flooring, drywall, cabinetry, and other finishes
- Emergency water damage restoration service
- Large insurance claims and out-of-pocket expenses
Simply put, the longer water is allowed to run, the more extensive (and expensive) repairs will be.
Immediate Actions To Take If A Burst Pipe Is Suspected
If you suspect you have a burst pipe, immediate action can help contain damage:
- Shut off the main water supply
- Do not use electrical fixtures near wet areas
- Document any visible damage if safe to do so
- Call a professional plumbing or drainage specialist immediately
Delaying service allows water damage to multiply and restoration costs to increase.
Superior Drainage provides emergency plumbing and water damage services throughout Northeast Ohio. We have the capability to locate burst pipes, stop active leaks, and help prevent further damage to your home.
Whether you live in Akron, Aurora, or one of the surrounding communities, taking fast action could help you avoid thousands in repair and restoration costs.
Prompt, Reliable Service (330) 733-3711Frequently Asked Questions About Burst Pipes
What Causes A Burst Pipe?
Burst pipes are most commonly caused by freezing temperatures, aging pipes, corrosion, high water pressure, or weakened pipe joints.
Can A Burst Pipe Happen Behind Walls?
Yes. Burst pipes often happen inside walls, ceilings, or floors, which causes hidden damage before symptoms appear.
Is A Burst Pipe Considered An Emergency?
Yes. A burst pipe is a plumbing emergency and should be addressed immediately to avoid water damage.
How Fast Can A Burst Pipe Flood A Home?
A burst pipe can release hundreds of gallons of water in minutes, resulting in flooding and structural damage.
Who Should I Call For A Burst Pipe?
Contact a professional plumbing or drainage company with emergency service capabilities as soon as possible.
