A burst pipe can go from a minor leak to a full-blown disaster in minutes. Water rushes out uncontrollably, soaking floors, walls, and belongings, leaving behind costly damage and major disruptions. Whether freezing temperatures, wear and tear, or high water pressure causes it, knowing how to act fast can save your commercial property from extensive repairs. So, if you face a water pipe burst emergency, remember not to panic! Instead, follow these steps to contain the situation and prevent further damage.
Why Do Pipes Burst?
Frozen pipes are the biggest culprit. When water freezes, it expands, but pipes can’t stretch to handle that pressure. As a result, the pressure builds up until the pipes crack or burst. This usually happens in unheated areas like basements, attics, exterior walls, and garages.
Other than freezing temperatures, several other factors might cause a water pipe to explode. That’s why regular maintenance is just as important as winter-proofing. These issues can put pressure on your plumbing and lead to serious damage:
- Excessive water pressure
- Worn-out pipes
- Corrosion
- Shifting soil or foundation movement
- Clogs and blockages
- Tree root intrusion
- Poor installation or repairs
Pipe Burst: What to Do
A pipe exploded in your bathroom, and water’s flooding everywhere—what do you do first?
Before reaching for towels or calling a burst pipe plumber, focus on stopping the source. The longer the water flows, the worse the damage is, so here’s how to stop a pipe burst quickly and prevent further damage to your commercial property:
1. Turn Off the Main Water Supply
Shutting off the water prevents more flooding and allows you to deal with the mess without extra damage. So, find the shut-off valve and turn it off immediately. It’s usually near the water meter or where the main line enters the home. Sometimes, it’s under the sink, in a laundry closet, or near the bathroom. If you can’t locate it quickly, check your business property’s plumbing plans or ask your building manager.
2. Shut Off the Electricity If Needed
Water and electricity don’t mix. If the burst pipe has caused water to pool near outlets, appliances, or electrical panels, cut the power to avoid a shock hazard. Switch off the electricity at the main breaker if it’s safe to do so. If water has reached electrical systems, call an electrician before touching anything.
3. Drain the Pipes to Relieve Pressure
Even after turning off the main valve, some water remains in the pipes. Clear it out by:
- Turning on all faucets, starting with cold taps.
- Flushing toilets to empty the tanks.
- Switching off the water heater followed by running the hot taps to drain the remaining water safely.
Draining the system helps prevent further leaks and pressure buildup while repairs are arranged.
4. Minimise Water Damage
Once the water is off, the next priority is to protect your commercial space by removing excess water. Water sitting on floors, carpets, or furniture can cause warping, staining, and mould growth. So, grab some towels, mops, buckets, or a wet vacuum to soak up as much water as possible. If the burst happens near drywall, wooden floors, or insulation, dry these areas quickly to prevent swelling and long-term damage.
Increasing air circulation can also be helpful. To speed up the drying process, open windows and doors for ventilation and use fans and dehumidifiers to absorb moisture. Also, remove wet rugs, cushions, and furniture from the affected area.
When to Call a Plumber
Not every pipe burst is a DIY fix. A plumber will assess the cause of the burst, replace damaged sections, and check for weak spots in your system. Call a professional plumber if:
- The pipe has completely split or detached.
- Water has seeped into walls, ceilings, or flooring.
- The main water line is affected.
- You suspect hidden leaks behind walls or underground.
Temporary Fixes Before the Plumber Arrives
In case you’ve found the burst pipe and need a quick solution, some temporary fixes can slow the leak until a plumber takes over.
Patch Small Cracks or Holes
- Pipe clamps or rubber patches work well for visible leaks. Wrap the damaged area with a rubber sleeve and secure it with clamps or waterproof tape.
- Epoxy putty can temporarily seal small cracks. Press the putty over the hole, let it harden, and it will hold until a permanent fix is done.
Keep Pipes Warm to Prevent Freezing
If the burst pipe was caused by cold weather, keep the heating system on at a low setting to stop other pipes from freezing. So keep your thermostat steady—day and night. Even if you’re away, set it to at least 12°C.
How to Prevent Burst Pipes in the Future
Once the immediate problem is under control, take steps to avoid another water burst pipe emergency down the road.
1. Insulate Exposed Pipes
Pipes in garages, basements, and crawl spaces need extra attention. If temperatures drop where you live, prevent freezing by wrapping pipes in:
- Foam insulation
- Heat tape
- Fibreglass insulation
- Pipe sleeves (specifically designed for pipe insulation)
2. Seal Gaps and Cracks
Cold air seeps in through gaps in walls and floors. To block openings near pipes:
- Use spray foam or caulk to seal any gaps around pipes.
- Ensure windows and doors are properly sealed to prevent drafts that could freeze pipes.
3. Let Faucets Drip
A slow trickle of water keeps pipes from freezing. This is key for pipes along exterior walls. Draining the outdoor faucets before winter can also help:
- Turn off the outdoor water supply
- Disconnect garden hoses
- Drain any leftover water
4. Check Your Water Pressure
Too much pressure strains pipes and weakens them over time. If your taps spray harder than usual, your pressure might be too high. Installing a pressure regulator can fix this and prevent unnecessary stress on your plumbing system.
5. Schedule Routine Plumbing Inspections
A yearly plumbing check can catch small leaks or weak spots before they become big problems. If your property is older or has recurring plumbing issues, inspections are a must.
Protect Your Business with Commercial Plumbing Services
A burst pipe is stressful enough, but when it happens at a commercial property, the stakes are even higher. A burst pipe in a commercial building can disrupt operations, damage property, and cost thousands in repairs.
Plumbing problems don’t wait—but the right response and maintenance plan can keep your business safe. At Commercial Building Repairs, we offer:
- 24/7 emergency plumbing services
- Routine checks to prevent unexpected failures
- Pipe repairs & replacements
- Water pressure management
Protect your business from plumbing disruptions! Contact us today for expert commercial plumbing services.