Bursting Pipes Are Terrible for Homes

1/7/2021 (Permalink)

Modern construction techniques do an amazing job of keeping the elements outside of your home and the inside cozy, warm and dry. A building envelope is designed to prevent water damage and last for a good number of years.
Unfortunately, bursting pipes bypass the envelope and usually leaves a disaster in their wake. If it happens to you, here’s what to do right away and the best way to deal with the resulting damage.

Your First Step
If you have a pipe break, there are a few immediate actions that can save big problems later:

• Turn off the electric.
• Shut off the water.
• Clean up clear flooded water.

Before you shut off your water, turn off your electricity! If the water reaches exposed wiring, it could cause severe wiring damage – or a fire! If you can safely turn it off, do so, but be careful. If you’re not comfortable shutting it off, skip this step.

Your Next Step
Then, shut off the water. Do so wherever it’s quickest; bursting pipes aren’t going to wait for you to make a decision. You can incrementally turn it on later to unaffected areas, if necessary.
Remove any flooded water as long as it hasn’t mixed with sewage. Dry the area quickly with a mop and towels, then set up a fan to facilitate airflow. You want to reduce humidity as much as practical.

Insurance Claims
If a plumbing problem is sudden and accidental, all common homeowner’s insurance policies should pay for the damages. However, if it’s been an ongoing problem – or the result of improper or lacking maintenance – your insurance claim may be denied. It’s your responsibility to take reasonable care of your property.

The Aftermath
Bursting pipes can cause a huge mess. If water has soaked into the walls or worked its way behind them, the damage can be extensive. You need an experienced water damage specialist who can:

• Fix broken pipe
• Locate hidden damage
• Help with insurance claim

They’ll then restore your home to its former condition. SERVPRO makes it “Like it never even happened.”