Burst Pipe? Here’s What To Do Next:

With extreme cold temperatures gripping our region, comes the real potential for frozen pipes. When water freezes, it expands, and weak metal or plastic pipes that aren’t insulated are more susceptible to bursting or leaking. In many cases, the ruptured pipe is not discovered until after the ice begins to thaw and water starts flowing again.

When a pipe bursts, it can cause severe damage to your commercial or residential property. Here are the immediate steps you should take once you identify a burst pipe:

SHUT OFF YOUR WATER, AND IF NECESSARY, ELECTRICITY
If a pipe has burst, you’ll immediately notice abundant water or a rushing sound in the walls. Locate the property’s main water valve and shut it off immediately if safely accessible. (Make sure you know where the valve is located ahead of time.) Electricity should also be cut off to the section of the property where the water damage has occurred. You’ll find the stop tap on the water main. It is often located where the main service pipe connects to your property.

DRAIN THE PIPE
Once you’ve turned off the water, you’ll need to drain the pipes. Run cold water on all the faucets. If you’re in a home or residential building, be sure to flush each toilet at least once. Shut off the hot water heater. Once the hot water system is off, go back to each faucet and run the hot water to drain that supply. When there is no more running tap water, the leak will stop.

LOCATE AND INSPECT DAMAGE
Finding the location of the leak will help you determine the extent of the damage and evaluate your repair options. (If you need guidance regarding your options to repair a damaged pipe, contact us. Our team at 24 Restore is happy to advise you.)

CALL A PROFESSIONAL WATER MITIGATION TEAM
Once water damage has occurred in the property, it’s imperative that a professional water restoration company, like 24 Restore, is brought in to complete the water mitigation process correctly. Improper drying of a water loss is dangerous and could lead to mold, mildew and other serious health risks to future occupants.

24 Restore is the preferred restoration services partner of commercial & residential property owners across New England. Whether you’re dealing with an emergency situation, or just simply need help implementing a sound Disaster Response Plan, we’re available to help. Contact 24 anytime, day or night for assistance.