Introduction

Your home’s plumbing system in Davie, FL, is essential for daily life, but it often goes unnoticed until something goes wrong. Over time, pipes experience wear and tear, and when pressure builds up to a breaking point, a burst pipe can cause extensive damage. Protecting your home from such incidents is crucial to avoiding costly repairs and potential health hazards like mold growth.

In this article, Dovis Plumbing explores nine common reasons why pipes burst and offers tips on how to prevent these issues.

1. Freezing Temperatures

Even in milder climates, pipes can freeze when temperatures drop. As water inside the pipes reaches 32°F, it begins to freeze, leading to a slow buildup of pressure. Eventually, this pressure can cause your home's pipes in Davie, FL, to burst. Pipes in unheated spaces like crawl spaces, attics, or near poorly insulated walls are most at risk. Properly insulating your pipes and monitoring them during cold snaps can help prevent freezing.

2. Tree Root Intrusion

Tree roots naturally seek out water, and underground pipes are often a prime target. Over time, roots can wrap around or penetrate pipes, exerting pressure that leads to cracks and leaks. To avoid this, plant trees and large shrubs away from water lines, and if you suspect root intrusion, have a plumber inspect your homes pipes in Davie, FL with a camera.

3. Aging, rust, and corrosion

Metal pipes are prone to rust and corrosion over time, which weakens them and increases the risk of bursting. Signs of corrosion include discoloration, warping, or rust-colored water. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to contact a plumber to assess the condition of your home's pipes in Davie, FL.

4. Clogged Pipes

Clogs are more than just a nuisance—they can also lead to burst pipes. When your home's pipe in Davie, FL, is clogged, water pressure builds up behind the blockage, which can eventually cause the pipe to rupture. Regular maintenance and the use of mesh drain covers can help prevent clogs from forming.

5. Hard Water

Hard water contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium, which can build up inside pipes, slowing water flow and causing corrosion. Installing a water treatment system to remove these minerals can help protect your home's pipes in Davie, FL, and extend their lifespan.

6. Shifting Soil

Changes in soil conditions due to construction, landscaping, or seismic activity can put pressure on underground pipes, leading to cracks and bursts. This is especially common if pipes are not buried deep enough. Regular inspections can help detect potential issues before they lead to a burst pipe.

7. High Water Pressure

Excessive water pressure can strain pipes beyond their capacity, leading to leaks or bursts. You can check your home’s water pressure using a hose bib gauge. If the pressure is too high (above 80 PSI), a plumber can install a pressure-reducing valve to bring it down to safer levels.

8. Accidental Damage

Pipes can be accidentally damaged during home renovations, landscaping, or even by hanging items on exposed pipes in basements or utility rooms. Always locate and mark underground pipes before starting any major projects, and avoid using exposed pipes as storage.

9. Poor Installation

Improperly installed pipes are more prone to failure. Issues like bad soldering or loose connections can lead to leaks or bursts down the line. It’s crucial to hire a licensed plumber for any installation or repair work to ensure the job is done correctly.

What to Do If a Pipe Bursts

If a pipe bursts in your home, take immediate action to minimize damage.

• Turn off the main water supply to stop the flow of water.
• Turn off electrical appliances near the leak if it’s safe to do so.
• Remove excess water and move personal property away from the area.

Call a professional plumber right away to handle repairs.

Repairing a burst pipe requires specialized skills and tools, so it’s best to leave this job to the experts. At Dovis Plumbing, our experienced team is ready to handle all your plumbing needs. Whether you need a pipe repaired or replaced, we’ve got you covered.

For reliable plumbing services, contact us at 954-504-6628 or visit our website at dovisplumbing.com.