What Causes Pipes to Burst and What to Do When It Happens

Apr 22

3 min read

Hey there! At Dino Plumbing & Service Pros, we’ve seen our fair share of pipe-related chaos here in Washington, UT, and trust us—a burst pipe is no joke. One minute your home is dry and peaceful, and the next, you're wading through water wondering what just happened. Whether it’s a freezing night or just a bad break, understanding what causes pipes to burst and what to do when it happens can save you time, stress, and a whole lot of money.

Let’s walk through what you need to know (and what you shouldn’t try to fix on your own).

Common Causes of Burst Pipes

1. Freezing Temperatures: When the temperature drops below freezing, water in your pipes can freeze and expand. That pressure builds up fast, and BOOM—your pipe gives out. That’s why winter can be especially rough on your plumbing.

2. External Pressure from Surroundings: Got construction happening near your home? Heavy machinery or tree roots can push against underground pipes and eventually cause them to burst.

3. Internal Blockages and Clogs: A clog might seem minor, but when pressure builds behind it, the pipe can’t take it forever. Toilets, sinks, and even older fixtures can be the start of a bigger mess.

4. Excessive Water Pressure: More isn’t always better. High water pressure might feel great in the shower, but it can stress your pipes out and cause long-term damage.

5. Tree Root Intrusion: Those roots may seem innocent above ground, but underground, they’re on a mission. If they find even the tiniest crack in your pipe, they’ll sneak in and make things worse fast.

6. Aging Plumbing Systems: Older homes around Washington often have outdated or corroded pipes. Time breaks everything down—including your plumbing.

7. Ground Shifts and Earthquakes: Even small tremors can misalign your plumbing over time. One good shake, and things can snap out of place—literally.

Immediate Actions to Take When a Pipe Bursts

First things first—stay calm. Your home isn’t sinking (we promise), but quick action is key. Shut off the main water valve as soon as you can to stop the flood. Then, give us a call. Even if things look under control, hidden damage can cause problems down the road. It’s always best to get a professional set of eyes on the situation.

Professional Solutions for Burst Pipe Repairs

When it comes to fixing burst pipes, we don’t mess around. Here are a few of the solutions we offer:

Pipe Replacement: Out with the old, in with the strong and reliable.
Pipe Relining: We can create a new pipe inside the old one without tearing up your yard.
Joint Repairs: Loose or leaking joints? We’ll tighten them up and make them secure again.

These aren’t quick-fix patches—they’re long-term solutions meant to keep your home safe and dry.

Water Damage Control and Restoration

We partner with some of the best restoration crews in the area because burst pipes don’t just cause plumbing issues—they leave behind water damage, mold risks, and structural problems. Acting fast means less damage and faster cleanup. Our job is to handle the plumbing. If there’s water where it doesn’t belong, we’ll connect you with experts to dry it up properly.

Long-Term Prevention of Pipe Bursts

Here’s what we recommend to keep your pipes happy and healthy:

Book yearly plumbing inspections to catch issues early.
Have your water pressure checked by a pro.
Insulate exposed pipes, especially in attics and crawl spaces.
Upgrade old plumbing before it gives out unexpectedly.
Keep an eye (and ear) out for unusual sounds or water flow problems.

Doing these things can help you avoid a future pipe disaster.

Why You Should Always Call the Pros

When pipes burst, the last thing you want is guesswork. You need fast action, expert knowledge, and real solutions. At Dino Plumbing & Service Pros, we’re not just here for emergency calls—we’re here to help you maintain your home, avoid disasters, and breathe easy knowing your plumbing’s in great shape.

If you're dealing with a burst pipe or think your system might be at risk, don’t wait—reach out to Dino Plumbing & Service Pros in Washington, UT today! Let’s fix it before it floods your life.