Burst pipes happen a lot in the Village of Norridge, Illinois, especially during freezing weather in the winter, or as a result of old plumbing, causing significant damage to your home.
At ServiceMaster Restoration by Zaba, we’ve restored the homes of thousands of local Norridge residents after burst pipe disasters.
Here are the most common causes of burst pipes in the area and what you can do about it.
Key Takeaways
- Burst pipes in Norridge are often caused by freezing, old pipes, buildup, high pressure, tree roots, poor plumbing, temperature swings, or ignored leaks.
- If a pipe bursts in your home, shut off water and power, call a plumber and a restoration company like ServiceMaster by Zaba, take photos, and start drying.
- ServiceMaster by Zaba responds fast, removes water, dries your home, prevents mold, repairs damage, and assists with insurance claims. Call us now: (847) 730-7301
Why Do Pipes Burst in Norridge?
1. Freezing Temperatures
When water freezes in the winter, it expands and puts pressure on your pipes, which can make them burst once they thaw.
What to do: Wrap pipes in cold spots, keep your heat on, and let faucets drip during freezing weather.
2. Old Pipes
Older homes usually have pipes that are rusty or worn out. These weak pipes can leak or burst, leading to water damage on walls, floors, and your stuff.
What to do: Have a plumber inspect your pipes. Replace old ones with newer materials like PEX.
3. Mineral Buildup
Hard water leaves minerals behind in your pipes. Over time, that buildup makes the pipe openings smaller and raises pressure.
What to do: Use a water softener. Have a plumber flush the system every year or as recommended.
4. Too Much Water Pressure
High water pressure wears pipes down faster. Over time, that stress can cause cracks or even bursts, especially in old or weak pipes.
What to do: Install a pressure regulator. Keep pressure between 40 and 60 psi.
5. Tree Roots
Roots can grow into pipes underground and cause cracks or clogs. That can block water flow or weaken the pipe so much it bursts, especially if pressure builds up behind the clog.
What to do: Don’t plant trees near your water lines. Every 2–3 years, have a licensed plumber perform a camera inspection of your underground pipes to check for root intrusion, cracks, clogs, or other hidden damage that could lead to a burst pipe.
6. Bad Plumbing Work
If the pipes weren’t installed correctly, they may not last. Poor joints, weak connections, or no support can cause leaks or even pipe bursts when water pressure builds.
What to do: Always hire a licensed plumber who follows local plumbing codes to ensure pipes are installed correctly and safely. If something looks off, don’t hesitate to ask questions or get a second opinion.
7. Big Swings in Temperature
Quick changes from hot to cold can stress pipes and cause cracks. The sudden shift makes the pipes expand and shrink fast, which weakens them, especially in old or brittle pipes.
What to do: Add insulation and seal drafts around the house.
8. Overlooked Small Leaks
A small drip might not seem like a big deal, but over time, it weakens the pipe. That weak spot can burst and turn into a major problem.
What to do: Fix leaks as soon as you find them. Check under sinks and in your basement regularly.
What to Do If a Pipe Bursts in Your Home
1. Turn off the water.
Find your main shut-off valve – usually in the basement or near your water meter – and turn it off. This stops more water from flooding your home.
2. Shut off electricity.
If water is near outlets, lights, or appliances, turn off the power to that part of your home using the breaker. This helps keep you safe from electric shock.
3. Call a licensed plumber.
Once you’ve stopped the water and ensured safety, you’ll need a plumber to repair the burst pipe and prevent further problems.
4. Call ServiceMaster by Zaba.
We’re ready 24/7. Our team will arrive fast, remove the water, dry everything out, and start repairs to get your home back to normal.
5. Take photos.
Take clear pictures of all the damage – wet floors, walls, and anything else that got soaked. Keep all the damaged items until your insurance adjuster sees them.
6. Start drying.
If it’s safe, set up fans and open windows to get air moving. Drying the space fast helps stop mold from growing.
How ServiceMaster by Zaba Helps with Burst Pipes
When you call us, here’s what we do:
- Remove the water: We use pumps and vacuums to extract the water
- Dry out your home: We bring in strong fans and dehumidifiers to dry floors, walls, and everything else.
- Prevent mold: We apply treatments to stop mold before it starts.
- Fix the damage: We repair or replace water-damaged floors, walls, and even your personal belongings.
- Work with your insurance: We handle the paperwork and help with processing your insurance claim.
We’ve been serving families in Norridge and throughout the Chicago area for years, so you can count on us to handle your burst pipe emergency with the experience and care you deserve.
Dealing With a Burst Pipe in Norridge? Call Us Now!
A burst pipe can do a lot of damage, but if you act fast, it doesn’t have to get worse.
Call ServiceMaster by Zaba for burst pipe cleanup and damage restoration in Norridge. We’re available 24/7, 365 days a year.
Need help now? Call us at (847) 730-7301.
FAQs
What are the signs of a burst pipe?
Here are some common signs to watch for:
- Sudden drop in water pressure
- Banging, clanging, or whistling sounds from your pipes
- Water stains on walls, ceilings, or floors
- Damp or musty smells
- Pools of water forming under sinks or near walls
- A big spike in your water bill with no clear reason
Does homeowners insurance cover a burst pipe?
Yes, most home insurance policies cover damage from a burst pipe—like wet floors or ruined walls. But fixing the pipe itself might not be included. Always check your policy.
How much does it cost to fix a burst pipe?
It varies. A small repair could cost a few hundred dollars. If there’s serious water damage, it might cost more. Contact ServiceMaster by Zaba for a quote based on your situation.
Is a burst pipe an emergency?
Yes, it is. A burst pipe can flood your home in minutes. Turn off your water and call ServiceMaster by Zaba right away. We’ll get there fast to clean up and start repairs.
How can I prevent burst pipes?
Keep pipes warm in the winter, fix leaks early, check your water pressure, and have a plumber inspect your system once a year. These small steps can save you from big problems later.
