Why do pipes burst? Water damage can sneak up fast, and one of the most frequent culprits is a burst pipe. Whether it happens in the dead of winter or in the middle of a quiet afternoon, a broken pipe can send gallons of water pouring into your home in minutes, damaging walls, floors, and everything in between.

At Gateway Restoration, we’ve seen firsthand how devastating burst pipes can be. That’s why we’re here to help you understand why it happens, how to respond quickly, and how to prevent it from happening in the future. And, as always, if you do experience a burst pipe, we are here for you with water damage restoration Chandler can trust. 

Why Do Pipes Burst?

Pipes don’t usually burst out of nowhere. There are a few common triggers that can cause sudden failures in your plumbing system:

High Water Pressure

Your home’s plumbing is designed to handle a certain amount of water pressure. When it goes beyond that limit, either due to malfunctioning pressure regulators or municipal supply issues, it can weaken pipe joints or cause pipes to rupture altogether.

Pipe Corrosion

Over time, pipes made from metal like galvanized steel or copper can corrode from the inside. This, then, can weaken the structure of the pipe, making it more likely to crack or burst even under normal pressure. Check out a real example of what this looks like and how our team expertly handled a burst supply line. 

Clogs and Blockages

When pipes are blocked by mineral buildup, grease, or other debris gets stuck inside, pressure can build up behind the clog. If the pressure gets too high, it can rupture the pipe, as water has nowhere else to go.

What Should I Do Immediately After a Pipe Bursts?

If a pipe bursts in your home, acting fast can make the difference between a successful mitigation and the complete destruction of your home and personal belongings. Here are your next steps in such a situation:

  • Cut off the Water: Find your main shut-off valve and turn it off immediately to stop more water from flowing into your space.
  • Shut the Power: Water should be nowhere near electricity. If it has reached any electrical outlets or appliances, turn off the power to that area.
  • Drain Faucets: Open faucets to let the remaining water out and reduce pressure in the system.
  • Call Gateway Restoration Right Away: Our team is available 24/7 to respond to water damage emergencies. We’ll assess the situation, extract standing water, and begin drying and repairs.
  • Document the Damage: To make sure you file your claim successfully, make sure to take photos or videos of the damage and don’t move anything around.

Long-Term Tips to Prevent Burst Pipes from Surprising You

While you can’t control the weather, there are several steps you can take to prevent water damage and reduce the risk of a flood from a burst pipe:

  1. Insulate Exposed Pipes: Use pipe insulation sleeves in crawl spaces, garages, basements, and exterior walls.
  2. Keep the Heat On: Even if you leave town, keep your home’s thermostat set above 55°F.
  3. Let Faucets Drip in Cold Weather: Running water helps prevent freezing during extreme cold.
  4. Get a Pressure Regulator: Keep your home’s water pressure within safe limits (typically under 80 psi).
  5. Have Your Plumbing Checked: A professional can identify signs of corrosion or aging pipes that may need to be replaced.
  6. Know Where Your Shut-Off Valve Is: Make sure everyone in your household knows where it is and how to use it in an emergency.

Why Choose Gateway Restoration for Burst Pipe Damage?

At Gateway Restoration, we specialize in fast, professional water damage restoration from burst pipes to hidden pipe leaks throughout Chandler, AZ. When disaster strikes, we respond 24/7 with experienced technicians who know how to handle every part of the job, from stopping the water to rebuilding your space.

Here’s why homeowners and businesses in Chandler trust us:

  • 24/7 Emergency Response
  • Experienced, Licensed, and Insured Technicians
  • Advanced Water Extraction and Drying Equipment
  • Complete Repair and Rebuild Services
  • We Work Directly With Your Insurance Company
  • Locally Trusted for Over a Decade

Call Now for Fast, Reliable Water Damage Restoration

If a burst pipe has caused damage in your home, contain it now! The longer water sits, the more damage it can do. Call our team at Gateway Restoration at (480) 990-4142 for immediate help with expert water damage restoration and burst pipes, or fill out this form for a free estimate. Let’s dry your space and restore it to safety together!