What Are Some Common Causes of Flooding From a Burst Pipe in the Basement?

Thankfully, water supply pipes are engineered and constructed to specifications that withstand conditions that stress their limits without suffering a catastrophic failure. Burst pipes indicate the presence of a significant level of stress or structural damage. Here are some typical causes of burst water pipes.

Pipe freeze

Freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on exposed or under-insulated water pipes. The pressure in the pipes reduces the freezing point inside the pipes. At 20 degrees Fahrenheit, pipes start to freeze, and in six to eight hours at this temperature, vulnerable sections of the pipe freeze solid. Wind chill can accelerate the freezing process. At the point of blockage, pressures rise significantly, and the pipe can rupture. Since the contents of the pipe are frozen solid, the leak may not be noticeable until thawing takes place. If no one is home to notice the leak, thousands of gallons of water could spew into the crawl space or basement.

Aging plumbing

All pipes, whether metal or plastic, have a lifespan. Plastic pipes become brittle, while metal pipes are subject to corrosion. Exposure to harsh weather and improper maintenance can shorten that lifespan, and aging pipes, once compromised, can burst at any time.

External forces

Vehicle weight, excavation damage, and tree roots can crack or crush pipes buried in the ground. A damaged pipe leaking at a rate of one gallon per minute can waste well over 40,000 gallons of water in a month. If the pipe is near the foundation of a home, the excess water could seep into the basement, causing extensive damage. Underground water leaks are very difficult to locate and expensive to repair.

Clogs

Mineral buildup in a water pipe can restrict or block water flow. The pressures created by this situation can lead to burst pipes and a flooded basement. Proper maintenance is the key to avoiding a water damage disaster.

Ground movements

Ground movement from earthquakes and tremors can cause ground pipes to rupture. Soil shift from excessive rain can crack or break underground water pipes. These leaks can be difficult to spot until large amounts of water have seeped out of the ground. Look for unusual wet spots on the ground or unexplained low water pressure. If the leaks are near the foundation of the home, the basement could experience flooding.

Incorrect plumbing

Pipe layering involves joining a larger pipe to a smaller pipe of lesser thickness. The excessive water pressure from this situation can lead to structural failure in the smaller pipe.

Pipe joints are the most vulnerable points of a pipe system, and improper or weak pipe connections can leak or fail completely. Where needed, joints should be appropriately reinforced to prevent leaks.

Flooded basement water removal and damage restoration

Burst water pipes are one of the most common causes of basement flooding. A flooded basement presents many hazards, including exposure to contaminated water, the potential for electrocution, and slip-and-fall injury. In the event of a flooded basement, enlist the services of professionals who have the training, equipment, and expertise to quickly and safely remove the water and restore the damaged area to its pre-flood condition.

Contact All Pro Services to learn more about flooded basement water removal. The team of damage restoration professionals can be reached by calling (385)855-2252 or emailing office@allproutah.com.