How to Handle a Burst Pipe
A burst pipe can release hundreds of gallons of water in minutes. Fast action in the first 5 minutes determines how much damage occurs. Know where your main shutoff valve is before an emergency happens — it's the most important thing in this guide.
Likely Causes
- 1Frozen water inside the pipe expanding and splitting the pipe
- 2Corrosion weakening old galvanized or copper pipes
- 3High water pressure causing a blowout
- 4Physical damage from nails, drilling, or settling
- 5Old pipes failing from age (galvanized pipes typically last 20–50 years)
This is an emergency. Burst pipes can cause thousands of dollars in water damage within minutes. Shut off water immediately.
How to Fix It: Step by Step
- 1Shut off the main water supply
Find the main shutoff valve — usually near the water meter, in the basement, or outside near the foundation. Turn it clockwise to close. If the burst is near a single fixture, use the local shutoff valve instead.
- 2Turn off the water heater
After shutting off water, turn off your water heater to prevent it from running dry and burning out the heating element.
- 3Open all faucets to drain remaining water
Turn on cold water taps throughout the house to drain water from the pipes. This reduces pressure and removes water near the burst.
- 4Dry out the area
Use towels, a wet/dry vacuum, or a sump pump to remove standing water. Start drying immediately — mold can form within 24–48 hours.
- 5Apply a temporary patch
Use a pipe repair clamp or rubber pipe patch tape (self-fusing silicone tape) as a temporary fix. These hold pressure long enough to restore water while you arrange permanent repair.
- 6Cut out and replace the damaged section
For copper pipe: cut out the damaged section with a pipe cutter, clean the ends, apply flux, and solder in a new section with couplings. For PEX or CPVC, use push-fit fittings (no soldering required).
- 7Turn water back on slowly and inspect
Open the main shutoff slowly. Check all joints for leaks. Monitor for the next hour.
Materials & Tools Needed
Warning Signs It's Getting Worse
- ⚠Water is staining ceilings or walls (structural saturation)
- ⚠Bubbling or soft drywall near the burst
- ⚠Musty smell developing within 48 hours (mold)
- ⚠Electrical outlets or panels near the water
When to Call a Professional
Call a plumber immediately if: you can't locate the shutoff valve, the burst is inside a wall or ceiling, multiple pipes have burst, or the burst is in the main supply line. Also call your insurance company to document the damage.
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