Did You Know Your Pipes Can Burst in the Summer, Too?

Burst pipes can wreak havoc on your home and its foundation. Water everywhere, damaged property and costly cleanup — what a headache! Frozen pipes during the winter are one of the most common causes of broken pipes, but can pipes burst in the summer, too? Yes, under certain circumstances, they can. This makes it crucial to monitor and maintain your home’s plumbing often throughout the year.

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Pipes Can Burst in the Summer

If you live in a colder region, you may worry about your pipes freezing during the winter, especially if you lose power for an extended period. You might not realize that your pipes can also burst in the summer. There are several reasons they might crack or break during the warmer months.

What Causes a Pipe to Burst?

There are several reasons pipes burst in summer, including:

Tree Roots

Can tree roots cause pipes to burst in the summer? Actually, tree root damage is the most common cause of pipes breaking when the weather is warm. Since trees tend to grow more during the spring and summer, problems often occur at this time of year. As the roots continue to grow, they can push against the underground pipes and cause them to burst.

Warm Weather

Can pipes burst in warm weather? Typically, extreme heat doesn’t affect your indoor plumbing; it’s your outdoor pipes that can burst. These high temperatures often correspond with dry spells, which can harden the ground and loosen the soil surrounding your pipes. This, in turn, can cause your underground pipes to shift and eventually break or burst.

Clogged or Blocked Pipes

Another cause of pipes bursting is a clogged drain. Failing to repair a blocked drain can allow pressure to build up and eventually cause the pipe to rupture. Spending more time outdoors can increase the risk of clogged pipes because dirt and grime from washing your hands, clothes and boots can go down your pipes. Unfortunately, this debris, along with mineral deposits in your water, can clog your drains.

Age of the Plumbing

Pipes can burst in the summer if they're older. Over time, the stability of your pipes can weaken, eventually leading to small cracks or holes in your piping system. As this damage grows, the pipes can break completely and require replacement. Over time, piping can also erode and corrode, causing damage.

Hot Water

Can hot water cause a pipe to burst? Yes, but this is more likely to happen if your pipes are older or corroded. This damage can weaken the pipes, making them more susceptible to cracking. This issue can happen at any time of the year.

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How to Prevent Pipes From Bursting in the Summer

Sometimes, it’s easy to tell your pipes have burst by the sheer amount of water damage. However, broken and cracked pipes aren't always as easy to identify, especially if the damage is behind the walls, under the floors or outside. There are several signs you can look out for, such as:

• A sudden increase in your water bill

• Fluctuation in water pressure

• Water stains on the ceiling or walls

• Standing puddles of water outside

• An unpleasant odor from pipes or the surrounding area

The best way to prevent water damage due to broken pipes is to take proactive measures to protect your plumbing, including:

• Replacing aging pipes before they become corroded

• Avoiding planting trees near water pipes

• Conducting annual plumbing inspections

• Insulating pipes

• Installing a water softener to prevent mineral buildup

• Monitoring signs of water leaks

• Watering the lawn regularly during dry spells to prevent the ground from shifting

What to Do If Your Pipes Burst in Summer

If your pipes burst, you first want to turn off the main water shutoff valve if possible. This will prevent further damage. Next, you should contact a professional plumber who can identify the problem and make the necessary repairs to restore your pipes.

Finally, you may need to hire a water damage restoration company to clean up the damage caused by the water leak and prevent mold or mildew.

Knowing whether pipes can burst in the summer can help you better prepare. If you suspect a problem with your pipes, contact a professional plumber right away.