The Top 5 Causes of Burst Pipes in Canadian Homes and How to Prevent Them

1. Frozen Pipes: A Leading Cause of Burst Pipes in Canada

During the harsh Canadian winters, freezing temperatures pose a serious threat to your plumbing. When water inside pipes freezes, it expands, putting immense pressure on the pipe. Eventually, the pressure can cause the pipe to rupture, leading to a burst water pipe.

Frozen pipes are most commonly found in areas of your home that are poorly insulated, such as basements, attics, or exterior walls. The good news is that there are steps you can take to prevent your pipes from freezing in the first place:

Prevention Tips:

• Insulate exposed pipes: Adding insulation around pipes in unheated areas (like basements and crawl spaces) can help keep them from freezing.
  
  
• Seal gaps and cracks: Check for cracks or gaps around windows, doors, and walls, and seal them to prevent cold air from reaching your pipes.
  
  
• Keep your home warm: Make sure your home maintains a steady temperature, especially in rooms with pipes running through exterior walls.
  
  
• Let faucets drip: On the coldest days, let a small amount of water run through faucets connected to vulnerable pipes to relieve pressure and prevent freezing.
  
  
• Call for professional help: If you already have frozen pipes, it’s important to call experts for unfreezing frozen pipes and frozen pipe repair near me to prevent a burst pipe repair situation.
  
  

2. Old or Damaged Pipes

As your pipes age, they naturally become more prone to issues like cracks and corrosion. In older homes, burst pipes can happen if pipes have deteriorated over time. When pipes are weakened by rust, scale buildup, or general wear and tear, they are more susceptible to bursting under pressure, especially when the water pressure inside rises.

Prevention Tips:

• Replace old pipes: If your home has older plumbing (especially made of galvanized steel or cast iron), it might be time to consider repiping with modern materials like PEX or copper.
  
  
• Schedule regular plumbing inspections: Have your pipes professionally inspected at least once a year to catch any signs of wear and tear before it becomes a problem.
  
  

3. High Water Pressure

Water pressure that’s too high can put a significant amount of strain on your pipes, causing them to crack or burst. High water pressure can occur due to issues with the water supply, but it’s also common in homes that lack a pressure-reducing valve.

If you’ve noticed that your pipes are making strange noises or you have faucets that deliver an unusually strong stream of water, it’s a good idea to have your home’s water pressure checked.

Prevention Tips:

• Install a pressure-reducing valve: This device helps regulate water pressure within the safe range, protecting your pipes from stress.
  
  
• Monitor water pressure: You can use a simple water pressure gauge to check the pressure yourself, or hire a professional plumber to inspect your system.
  
  

4. Clogged Pipes and Blockages

When pipes are blocked by debris, grease, or tree roots, water cannot flow freely through them, which can lead to increased pressure and, eventually, pipe bursts. A blocked pipe can result from a buildup of waste materials, dirt, or even frozen water. If water pressure builds up behind a blockage, the pipe may give way and burst.

Prevention Tips:

• Regularly clean your pipes: Prevent blockages by scheduling periodic cleaning of your pipes, especially in areas prone to debris buildup.
  
  
• Install drain guards: Use drain screens to catch hair, food particles, and other debris that could lead to clogs.
  
  
• Avoid pouring grease or fat down the drain: These substances can harden inside pipes and cause clogs over time.
  
  

5. Poor Installation or DIY Plumbing Mistakes

In some cases, burst pipes are caused by poor installation practices or mistakes made during plumbing repairs. If your pipes were improperly installed or your plumbing system hasn’t been maintained properly, you could be at risk for leaks and bursts. Common issues include inadequate support for pipes or the use of substandard materials.

Prevention Tips:

• Hire licensed plumbers: Always hire a licensed, experienced plumber for installations, repairs, or inspections to ensure the job is done correctly.
  
  
• Don’t attempt DIY plumbing fixes: While DIY projects can save money, plumbing repairs require expertise. Attempting repairs without the right skills can lead to mistakes that increase the risk of burst pipe repairs.
  
  

At 247-Restoration.ca, we provide expert services for frozen pipe repair, burst pipe cleaning, and burst pipe repair in Toronto, Mississauga, and North York. If you’ve experienced a burst pipe in your basement or any other plumbing emergency, our team is here to help. Contact us today for fast, reliable plumbing solutions and keep your home safe from the hidden dangers of burst pipes.