5 Tips to Handle Broken Pipes

2/25/2020 (Permalink)

Bursting pipes can cause extensive damage in a commercial property.

Bursting pipes can cause extensive damage in a commercial property. There are several steps you can take to limit the extent of the damage.

1. Call a Plumber

Contact a plumber with an emergency work order to fix a broken pipe. If more than one person is on site, one person should make the call while the other shuts off or collects water.

2. Shut Off the Water

Shutting off the flow of water to your building can limit the amount of water that can cause damage. Notify all occupants that the water is turned off.

3. Collect Water in Containers

Collect as much water from bursting pipes as possible in any containers you have on hand. Once again, if more than one person is present, you should cycle out containers as each becomes full. These containers will be heavy, and a sturdy cart may help prevent strain or injury.

4. Fix Broken Pipes

A plumber should resolve the source of the leak before you can start removing water and restoring the area. Continue to try to mitigate the damage until help arrives.

5. Eliminate All Standing Water

Use any method available such as buckets, mops, towels, or a wet vacuum to start getting rid of standing water. You may want to call commercial damage restoration professionals with specialized equipment to pump out water. Water from a burst pipe is clean Category One water. If water leaks through building materials to another floor, it becomes contaminated Category Two water.

6. Dry the Affected Area

Prevent mold or other secondary damage by completely drying the area affected by the leak. Use a dehumidifier to draw moisture out of porous or semi-porous building materials and contents. Follow these steps to deal with bursting pipes and water damage. A plumber can help stop the leak, and restoration experts can help prevent further damage.