Leaky faucets, clogged toilets, and shower drain blockages may often be easy DIY projects that take little time to complete. Sometimes, these problems and other plumbing problems require the assistance of a professional plumber. Burst pipes are a common problem that plumbers can and should fix, however, rather than being considered a DIY project.
Here are some tips for dealing with burst pipes in your home:
Locate the Source
Finding a burst pipe in plain sight isn’t always an option since many pipes run unseen through most homes. If the burst pipe isn’t visible, how do you even know you’ve got a burst pipe in the first place?
Look for Signs of Burst Pipes
Water naturally flows downhill, so keep an eye out within your home for damage to floors, carpets, and tiles around the house. Musty odours, mould, and damp are also signs that there is a plumbing leak or burst pipe.
You’ll also want to inspect walls and ceilings for water damage. Wet, spotty areas of drywall or ceiling may be visible signs of leaky or burst pipes. If allowed to persist, dark black mould will likely develop, causing a serious health concern and damage that can cost thousands of dollars. At this point, you’ll need to hire a reputable plumber, but hiring one at the first sight of these problems is always recommended.
Contact a Reputable Plumber
Burst pipes are not a recommended DIY repair project, so you should endeavour to contact a quality plumber such as Endeavour Plumbing in order to remedy the situation. While waiting for the plumber to arrive, you may wish to patch up any leaks, but remember that these are only temporary fixes and a plumber will need to thoroughly repair the pipe so that it is no longer compromised.
Perform Interim Repairs
When burst pipes are visible and the crack is small or hairline, apply duct tape at the opening to provide pressure to the pipe section. Water may, over time, begin to leak through the tape again, which means that this solution is only temporary whilst awaiting for a professional plumber.
Another method of patching up a burst pipe is by applying a piece of rubber to the crack with a C-clamp. These devices can apply sufficient pressure to an isolated crack, but you’ll need to use rubber and a block of wood in order to tighten the grip.
The last repair method you can attempt on your own at minimal cost is by using a sleeve clamp. These can be purchased inexpensively at a local hardware store, but you’ll need to ensure that the sleeve’s inner diameter matches the exact diameter of your pipe in order to create a firm and tight grip. In addition to the sleeve clamp itself, you’ll need a screwdriver to tighten the clamp.
DIY vs. Hire a Plumber: What’s the Verdict?
Burst pipes may seem innocuous and easily patched over, but they can easily exacerbate existing plumbing problems and thus a professional plumber in Melbourne should always be hired to repair the pipe at the source of the problem.
This doesn’t mean that you can’t attempt some repairs yourself, however. Temporary solutions can mitigate damage until a plumber can come and inspect the burst pipe, so don’t hesitate to keep some materials on hand such as duct tape, C-clamps, or a sleeve clamp or two in case you do encounter a burst pipe in your home.
Don’t let burst pipes compromise the health and safety of you and your family. Flooding and damaged floors, walls, and ceilings can cost far more to tear out and rebuild than a good quality plumber such as Endeavour Plumbing, so call us to keep your plumbing in good working order.
For reliable Plumber in Hawthorn, Plumber in Malvern East, and Plumber in Malvern, look no further. Our experienced team is ready to handle all your plumbing needs efficiently and effectively. Trust us for all your plumbing emergencies and installations in these areas.
