Solutions For A Burst Water Main Before the Plumber Arrives

A burst water main can unload hundreds of gallons of water per minute. By the time the plumbers in Coppell, TX pull up to your property, you could already have your own private indoor pond. The good news is that there are smart and safe steps you can take before help arrives.

In this brief article brough to you by Texas Rooter, we walk through exactly what you can do to protect your home or business before the plumber arrives.

BEFORE WE BEGIN...

Panic can make us thing irrationally, so let's remember a critical truth: water and electricity can make for a deadly combination!

If water is nearing electrical outlets, appliances, or breaker boxes, then do NOT walk through the water. Shut off your electricity at the breaker if it’s safe to do so from a dry location. Otherwise, call the utility company or the fire department. Your safety is more important than anything else!

Step 1: Shut Off the Water Supply

First thing’s first: find your main shut-off valve and turn it off. Most residential properties have a shut-off in the garage, laundry room, or basement while commercial buildings may have an external valve near the foundation or curb.

If you’re not sure where your shut-off is, then take time today to locate it and make sure everyone in your household or business management knows how to use it. Trust us - it’ll be worth it.

Step 2: Open Drains and Spigots

Once the water main is shut off, you can open up your faucets, outdoor spigots, and drains to help clear the remaining water from the water lines and relieve pressure. This helps minimize the strain on your plumbing and reduce the amount of potential water damage.

Do not flush toilets or run dishwashers or washing machines. These systems rely on water flow and drainage to work properly - and that flow is now compromised.

Step 3: Salvage Your Valuables and Soaked Items

IF it's safe to do so, then carefully move any electronics, furniture, area rugs, and personal belongings away from the water’s path. The faster you remove soaked items, the better your chance of preventing long-term water damage and mold growth.

Step 4: Document the Damage

Once you’ve taken the initial measures, it's time to take photos and videos of the water damage. This is incredibly important for insurance purposes and recovering your rights. If you end up filing a claim, you’ll want a record of what happened and when.

Document everything from damaged walls and floors to soaked furniture and appliances. Take clear photos and video footage of the source of the damage as well (the burst pipe). With these, you want to be able to counter any objections by your property insurance provider.

Why Pipes Burst in the First Place

These steps are reactive measures, but a proactive approach demands an understanding of the causes. Here are a few common culprits in burst water mains:

• Corrosion or Age: Older pipes, especially galvanized steel or iron, are more prone to failure.
• Tree Root Intrusion: Roots seek out moisture and can push right through underground lines.
• Shifting Soil: As the soil moves, it can pressure or misalign the pipes.
• Freezing Temperatures: Dramatic temperature fluctuations during unexpected cold snaps can crack or damage water lines.
• Excessive Water Pressure: Too much pressure from within the water line can rupture a weakened pipe.

Regular inspections and preventive maintenance can help catch small issues before they become a problem; and timely plumbing repair service can prevent a problem from becoming a full-blown emergency. The team at Texas Rooter is happy to help in any case.

Dealing with a Burst Water Line? Call Texas Rooter!

If you need an urgent main water line repair NOW, then keep calm and contact Texas Rooter to get in touch with a local team of plumbers. Our team is on standby to take your call or message today.