The Pur360 Blog

Basement Flooding 101: Getting Smart With Bursting Pipes

Written by Zak K.

basement-flooding-101-getting-smart-with-bursting-pipes

Cold weather invades our homes like a battlefront. Ice dams, heavy snow, condensation on windows. Generally, we are able to see and combat most of the attacks, but occasionally, there is one that sneaks by when we least expect it.

Bursting pipes happen when the temperatures fluctuate and then drop causing water to freeze in colder spots then expand and crack pipes. Then the unfrozen water gushes out. Continue reading to learn more! 

In most cases, these pipes are located in crawl spaces or basements or on an outside wall that isn’t insulated very well. What should you do when a pipe breaks?

1. Immediately shut off the water line at the main valve.

2. Contact a plumber to fix the pipes.

3. Next, it is imperative that you drain the water quickly.

4. Bring in heaters to prevent further bursting and fans and a dehumidifier to further dry out the moisture.

We have comprised a list of top rated dehumidifiers and fans that will help with this process. If buying isn’t an option, check out renting options.

Top five dehumidifiers we recommend:

Top five fans we recommend:

Once this catastrophe happens, you do everything in your power to ensure it doesn’t happen again. Below are a few tips to prevent bursting pipes:

Tip 1: Insulate the pipes and surrounding wall.

Tip 2: Disconnect hoses from exterior water connections.

Tip 3: Make sure the temperature in the house doesn’t fall below 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

Tip 4: Keep interior doors open to promote air flow throughout the house keeping consistent temperatures.

Whatever your home faces this winter, be prepared. However, should water damage occur to your home, acting fast is the key to minimize additional damage, creating the breeding ground for mold. Bring in the professionals to assist with the drying of damp spaces.

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Topics: Flooding