April 05/2025

4 Ways to Deal with Burst Pipes

A burst pipe is every homeowner’s nightmare. Whether it’s caused by freezing temperatures, corrosion, or high water pressure, the damage from a broken pipe can escalate quickly—so knowing how to respond is critical. While it’s always best to call a professional plumber when a pipe bursts, there are important steps you can take to reduce damage and ensure a smoother repair process. Here are four practical ways to deal with burst pipes, and how a reliable plumbing repair service can help get your home back to normal.

• 1. Shut Off the Main Water Supply Immediately

The first thing you need to do when a pipe bursts is stop the flow of water. Find your home’s main water shut-off valve—typically located in the basement, utility room, or near where the main line enters your home—and turn it off right away. This will prevent additional water from flooding your space and minimize damage to floors, walls, and belongings.

Once the water is off, drain the remaining water from the system by opening all faucets and flushing toilets. This will relieve pressure from the pipes and reduce the chances of more leaks forming. After you’ve shut off the water, it’s time to call a licensed plumber to assess and repair the damage.

• 2. Locate the Burst Pipe and Assess the Damage

While you’re waiting for a plumbing repair service, try to locate the source of the burst. Common signs include water stains on ceilings or walls, puddles under sinks, or a hissing sound coming from behind the drywall. If you can access the area, use a bucket or towels to collect leaking water and limit further damage.

It’s also a good idea to take photos or videos of the damage for insurance purposes. Many home insurance policies cover water damage from burst pipes, and having documentation can help streamline the claims process.

Keep in mind that even if the damage appears minor, it’s essential to have a plumber inspect the system. Pipes that burst once may be part of a larger issue, such as aging materials or poor installation.

• 3. Temporarily Patch the Pipe (If Safe and Accessible)

In some cases, if you’re able to safely access the burst pipe, you may be able to apply a temporary patch. Hardware stores sell pipe repair clamps, epoxy putty, and rubber pipe connectors designed to hold leaks temporarily until a plumbing repair service can make permanent fixes.

Wrap the pipe with a rubber patch and secure it with a pipe clamp or strong tape. Again, this is only a short-term solution—do not rely on it as a permanent fix. Calling a professional plumber is still essential to ensure the pipe is properly repaired or replaced.

• 4. Call a Professional Plumbing Repair Service

No matter how handy you are, a burst pipe is not something you should tackle on your own. Professional plumbers have the experience, tools, and knowledge to repair the pipe correctly and inspect your system for additional issues. A qualified plumbing repair service can:

• Replace the damaged section of pipe
• Inspect for other weak spots or potential bursts
• Check for water damage and mold
• Recommend upgrades to prevent future incidents

Depending on the extent of the damage, they may also suggest insulating your pipes or installing a pressure-reducing valve to help prevent future pipe failures.

Prevention is Key

While dealing with a burst pipe is stressful, prevention goes a long way. Schedule regular plumbing inspections, insulate pipes during the winter, and monitor your water pressure to keep your system in good shape. If you notice early warning signs like strange noises, low water pressure, or recurring leaks, don’t wait—call a plumber from Mr. Rooter Plumbing to investigate.

A burst pipe can wreak havoc on your home, but quick thinking and the help of a reliable plumbing repair service in Colts Neck can make all the difference. By knowing what to do and who to call, you’ll be better prepared to handle emergencies and protect your property from serious damage. Don’t wait until disaster strikes—build a relationship with a trusted local plumber so you’ll know exactly who to call when you need help the most.