Top Reasons Behind Burst Pipes and Expert Prevention Tips to Keep Water Damage at Bay
Burst pipes are one of the most common causes of water damage in homes and businesses, catching residents of the Tampa Bay area off guard on a daily basis. When a pipe bursts, it can flood your property in just minutes, soaking floors, damaging walls, and even creating the perfect environment for mold growth along the way. In many cases, the damage can be severe before you even realize there’s a problem.
At Chris' Carpet Service & Water Restoration, we’ve helped countless property owners recover from burst pipe emergencies and Tampa water damage. Understanding the causes and taking the right steps can make a big difference in protecting your property.
What Causes Pipes to Burst Suddenly?
Burst pipes usually don’t happen without a warning. There are often factors that weaken or stress the plumbing system over time. Here are the most common reasons pipes burst:
Unsafe Water Pressure Levels
If your home’s water pressure is too high, it will eventually strain your pipes. Most plumbing systems are designed in such a way that they can handle pressure within a specific range. When pressure exceeds this limit, it can lead to ruptures, especially at joints or weak points.
Old and Corroded Pipes
Pipes don’t last forever. As time goes by, pipes made from materials like steel or iron can corrode from the inside out, which makes their structure weaker. This is more common in older homes with older plumbing systems whose pipes are more likely to fail and burst, causing extensive water damage.
What Are the Next Steps When a Pipe Bursts?
A burst pipe can cause panic, but taking fast and smart action can help you control the extent of damage. Here are the emergency steps after water damage you should immediately take:
- Turn off the Water Supply: Find your main water valve and turn it off to stop more water from flooding in.
- Turn off electricity in the water-damaged area: Water and electricity are a dangerous mix. If the leak is near outlets or appliances, shut off power to that area of your home.
- Call a water damage restoration expert: Quick action can save the day. At Chris' Carpet Service & Water Restoration, our team responds fast to burst pipe emergencies across the Tampa Bay Area, so give us a call to save your home or business.
- Remove valuables and furniture: Make sure to move items away from the affected area, as your furniture and other valuables can absorb water very quickly.
- Document the damage: Take photos of the burst pipe and water damage to support your water damage insurance claim.
How to Prevent Burst Pipes in the Future
While you can’t predict every plumbing emergency, there are things you can control to minimize the chances and the impact of water damage:
- Keep indoor temperatures consistent and above 55°F, even if you're away from home.
- Get a water pressure regulator to keep the pressure at a safe range, between 40 and 60 psi.
- Have annual checkups of your plumbing system, particularly if your home is more than 30 years old.
- Fix leaky pipes quickly because they can lead to bigger problems later on.
- Install smart water sensors or shut-off valves that detect leaks and shut off water automatically.
Why Choose Chris' Carpet Service & Water Restoration?
When a pipe bursts, time is everything. At Chris' Carpet Service & Water Restoration, we are proud to provide:
- 24/7 emergency water damage response in the Tampa Bay Area
- Certified technicians trained to handle water damage of any size and source
- Proven methods for water extraction, structural drying, and mold prevention
- Assistance with insurance claims
- Fast, reliable service backed by years of experience
Call Chris' Carpet Service & Water Restoration Today!
Don’t wait until a pipe bursts to take action. If you’re dealing with water damage or want to take steps to prevent future plumbing disasters, call Chris' Carpet Service & Water Restoration at (727) 888-5111, or fill out our online form for a free estimate. We’re available 24/7 to restore your property and bring back the comfort of your home or business.
