For burst pipes and water damage in Plymouth, MN, call Insight Restoration at 763-205-6584 anytime.
Many factors can cause burst pipes, from freezing water to leaks and high pressure. Often, pipe failure catches building occupants off guard, but you can take a few preliminary measures before help arrives. After calling Insight Restoration for commercial water damage emergencies in Plymouth, MN, here’s what you can do to help.
What To Do if a Water Pipe Bursts
In addition to calling plumbing services, be sure to do the following:
- Turn the main water shutoff valve clockwise to shut off the water supply. You can usually find the shutoff valve in the basement of most commercial buildings. Other main valve locations include near the water meter, under the main kitchen sink, or near wherever pipes enter the building.
- If you suspect the water will contact electrical lines or equipment, shut off the electricity.
- Look for wet spots in the building to locate the burst pipe. The most common burst pipe locations include bathrooms and kitchens.
- Once you find any burst pipes, take photos of the damage, then place buckets to catch the remaining leakage.
- Complete some temporary repairs on the pipe if possible.
How to Temporarily Repair Your Pipes
Construction workers have changed most pipes from steel and iron to PVC. Regardless, temporary repair methods can match different pipe types.
For smaller cracks, try using fiberglass, electrical, or duct tape. Wrap it around the hole several times until you completely cover it. This repair will not last very long with actual water flow, so call plumbing services as soon as possible.
You can temporarily fix larger holes or leaks at fitting joints with epoxy putty. Remember to use gloves while touching the material and follow the use instructions carefully.
Take photos of your repair attempts and ensure that you document as much damage as possible. When you submit a claim to your commercial property insurance company, the documentation can help expedite the claims process.
Why Your Water Pipe Might Burst
Water pipes, while sturdy, can sustain damage from many building and environmental conditions. As you review the damage, consider the following potential causes and discuss them with your plumber:
Too Much Pressure
High water pressure can wear down pipe materials, causing them to crack over time. Banging or creaking sounds from your pipes can indicate excessive internal force. Professional plumbers can install pressure-reducing valves to prevent future leaks.
Extreme Temperatures
Heat usually will not cause a pipe to burst, but cold temperatures do so regularly. When water freezes, it expands and strains against the walls. The pipes then crack at their weakest points and leak any unfrozen water.
You can reduce the chances of burst pipes in the winter many ways. One method includes leaving your faucets running at a low stream during freezing weather to relieve pressure. In another, you can insulate pipes exposed to these temperatures, like the ones outside or in the basement.
Old and Weak Piping
All pipes wear down over time. Businesses in older buildings usually end up with older, worn piping. Hire a plumber to determine whether the pipes need replacement, especially in buildings older than 30 years.
Having the pipes replaced earlier on can prevent future water damage. You can also mitigate future costs if you get maintenance plans for your water supply lines with the update.
What To Do After the Leaking Stops
Before cleaning up the mess, ensure that you’ve documented as much damage as possible. Your insurance company may reimburse you for cleaning and repair expenses. You can reduce building damages after you’ve temporarily stopped the pipe leak by cleaning up.
If you want to forgo trying to clean up by yourself, hire reliable restoration services. Our team at Insight Restoration cleans up after burst pipes, heavy storms, and natural disasters. We ensure all our employees have Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) and provide top-quality customer service.Contact us 24/7 for a Plymouth, MN, clean-up at 763-205-6584.
